The Supreme Court of Pakistan has adjourned the hearing of Zahir Jaffer’s appeal against his death sentence in the Noor Mukadam murder case until May 19.
The Noor Mukadam case has remained in the public eye since 2021, with every legal development closely followed across Pakistan. The case centers on the murder of Noor Mukadam, a 27-year-old woman whose death in Islamabad shocked the nation and led to widespread calls for justice.
Latest Court Update
During Tuesday’s hearing, Zahir Jaffer’s lawyer, Salman Safdar, requested an adjournment to submit additional documents. Justice Hashim Kakar, leading the three-member bench, questioned the need for an adjournment, emphasizing that unnecessary delays harm the justice system. “A case in our court only adjourns when a judge or lawyer dies,” Justice Kakar remarked.
Safdar argued that Zahir Jaffer’s mental health had been overlooked in previous proceedings and claimed the new documents could significantly impact the case. However, Justice Kakar insisted that such points could be raised immediately rather than delaying the process.
Petitioner’s lawyer, Shah Khawar, stated he would strongly oppose any new petitions from the defense. Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, also on the bench, advised that any new petitions should be submitted promptly for the court’s decision.
Previous Verdicts
In February 2022, a district and sessions court convicted Zahir Jaffer of Noor Mukadam’s murder, sentencing him to death, 25 years of rigorous imprisonment, and a fine of Rs200,000. Two household staff members, Iftikhar and Jameel, were each sentenced to 10 years in prison. Other accused, including Zahir Jaffer’s parents and TherapyWorks employees, were acquitted.
Ongoing Appeals
The Supreme Court bench, headed by Justice Hashim Kakar and including Justices Ishtiaq Ibrahim and Ali Baqar Najafi, is also set to hear Noor’s father Shaukat Mukadam’s appeal against the acquittal of Zahir Jaffer’s father, Zakir Jaffer.
Next Steps
The hearing on Zahir Jaffer’s appeal will resume on May 19, with the court expected to address any new documents or petitions submitted by the defense. The case remains closely watched by the public, given its high-profile nature and the ongoing demand for justice for Noor Mukadam.
