Hundreds of Women Allegedly Killed Every Year After Being Branded ‘Kari’ ; Human Rights Groups Demand Stronger Action

Islamabad : Pakistan continues to face international criticism over so-called “honour killings,” with human rights organisations warning that hundreds of women are killed every year after being labelled “Kari” a term used in parts of Sindh to accuse a woman of having an alleged illicit relationship.

According to rights groups, around 470 women were reportedly killed in Pakistan last year in cases linked to accusations of being declared “Kari.” Activists believe the actual number may be significantly higher, as many such crimes go unreported or are disguised as suicides or accidents.

The term “Kari” originates from the Sindhi language and is commonly used to stigmatise women accused often without evidence of violating family or tribal notions of honour. Once declared “Kari” by influential community members or family elders, some women become victims of brutal violence, including fatal shootings, in the name of preserving family honour.

A 20-Year-Old Woman’s Death Sparks OutrageOne recent case that has drawn widespread attention is that of 20-year-old Khalida Chandio from Pakistan’s Sindh province.According to reports, Khalida’s father,Mohammad Ramzan, was working a night shift at a cement factory near Karachi when he received the devastating news that his daughter had been shot dead in their village.

Her family alleges that Khalida was dragged out of her home during the night and killed a short distance away. The incident was reportedly filmed and shared on social media, adding to the family’s trauma.

Police officials said preliminary investigations indicate that Khalida was allegedly killed after being declared “Kari.” Authorities have arrested some suspects, including close relatives, while investigations into the case continue.Khalida’s father questioned why, if anyone believed she had committed any wrongdoing, they did not approach the police or the courts instead of taking the law into their own hands.

What Does ‘Kari’ Mean ? In parts of rural Sindh, “Kari” refers to a woman accused of an alleged extramarital or otherwise socially unacceptable relationship. A man accused in similar circumstances may be referred to as “Karo.” Human rights organisations have repeatedly stated that such accusations are frequently based on rumours, personal disputes, property conflicts, or attempts to control women’s choices rather than proven facts.

Women’s rights activists have long condemned the practice, describing it as a grave violation of human rights. They argue that victims are often denied any opportunity to defend themselves and are punished through extrajudicial violence.

Reports also suggest that in some areas, women killed after being labelled “Kari” are buried separately or without public funeral rites, reflecting the deep social stigma attached to such accusations.

Although Pakistan has strengthened laws against honour killings in recent years, campaigners say weak enforcement, social pressure, and tribal customs continue to allow such crimes to occur.

Human rights organisations have called for stricter implementation of the law, better protection for women at risk, and greater public awareness to eliminate honour-based violence and ensure that accusations never become a justification for murder.