Supreme Court Upholds Zahir Jaffer’s Death Sentence in Noor Mukadam Murder Case

ISLAMABAD, May 21, 2025 — In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has upheld the death sentence of Zahir Jaffer for the brutal 2021 murder of Noor Mukadam, a case that has gripped the nation and spotlighted issues of gender-based violence and legal accountability.

Background of the Case

Noor Mukadam, a 27-year-old daughter of a former Pakistani diplomat, was found murdered at Jaffer's residence in Islamabad on July 20, 2021. Investigations revealed that she was held captive for two days, tortured, raped, and ultimately beheaded. Zahir Jaffer, a dual Pakistani-American national, was arrested at the scene and later confessed to the crime. 

Supreme Court's Verdict

On May 20, 2025, a three-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by Justice Hashim Kakar and including Justices Ishtiaq Ibrahim and Ali Baqar Najafi, dismissed Jaffer's appeal against his death sentence. The court upheld the death penalty for murder under Section 302(b) of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). However, it converted the Islamabad High Court's (IHC) decision of a second death penalty for rape under Section 376 into a life sentence. Additionally, the 10-year sentence for kidnapping under Section 364 was reduced to one year. 

Co-Accused and Legal Proceedings

The Supreme Court also addressed the appeals of two co-accused—watchman Mohammad Iftikhar and gardener Jan Mohammad—who had been sentenced to 10 years each for abetting the crime. The court ruled that their time already served was sufficient, leading to their release. Zahir Jaffer's parents, Zakir Jaffer and Asmat Adamji, along with employees of Therapy Works, were previously acquitted due to insufficient evidence. 

Public and Legal Reactions

The verdict has been hailed as a significant moment in Pakistan's legal history, particularly concerning women's rights and justice for victims of gender-based violence. Human rights activist Tahira Abdullah described the decision as a "milestone achievement" in the ongoing struggle against entrenched patriarchy and misogyny in the legal system.

Shafaq Zaidi, a childhood friend of Noor, expressed relief and hope, stating, "This is a victory for all the women of Pakistan. It shows that our justice system can deliver justice and should give women more confidence in the legal process."

Implications and Future Considerations

While the Supreme Court's decision marks the culmination of a lengthy legal battle, the possibility of a presidential pardon under Article 45 of the Constitution remains. Such a pardon could potentially commute Jaffer's sentence, though no such action has been indicated at this time.

Case Timeline

• July 20, 2021: Noor Mukadam is found murdered at Zahir Jaffer's residence in Islamabad.

• February 24, 2022: A district and sessions court sentences Jaffer to death for murder and 25 years for rape.

• March 13, 2023: The Islamabad High Court upholds the death sentence and converts the 25-year rape sentence into a second death penalty. 

• May 20, 2025: The Supreme Court upholds the death sentence for murder, converts the rape sentence to life imprisonment, and reduces the kidnapping sentence.

FAQs

1. Who was Noor Mukadam?

Noor Mukadam was a 27-year-old Pakistani woman and the daughter of a former diplomat. She was tragically murdered in Islamabad in July 2021.

2. What were the charges against Zahir Jaffer?

Zahir Jaffer was charged with premeditated murder, rape, and kidnapping in connection with Noor Mukadam's death.

3. What was the Supreme Court's decision?

The Supreme Court upheld the death sentence for murder, converted the rape sentence to life imprisonment, and reduced the kidnapping sentence to one year.

4. Were any co-accused involved?

Yes, two household staff members were initially sentenced to 10 years each but were released after the Supreme Court ruled their time served was sufficient.

5. Can Zahir Jaffer receive a presidential pardon?

Under Article 45 of the Constitution, a presidential pardon is possible, but no such action has been taken.

6. What was the public reaction to the verdict?

The verdict was widely seen as a victory for justice and women's rights in Pakistan.

7. What role did Therapy Works play in the case?

Employees of Therapy Works were initially indicted but later acquitted due to lack of evidence.

8. Did Zahir Jaffer confess to the crime?

Yes, Jaffer confessed to the murder during the investigation.

9. What was the significance of this case?

The case highlighted issues of gender-based violence, legal accountability, and the influence of privilege within the Pakistani justice system.

10. Where is Zahir Jaffer currently incarcerated?

Zahir Jaffer is currently imprisoned at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.