SUKKUR: A video of an illegal jirga held in Sukkur has surfaced on social media, revealing a controversial decision in which a girl was reportedly ordered to be given as “Vani” to settle an alleged dispute involving a relationship accusation.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sukkur, the jirga declared that the family of a young man accused of having relations with a woman must hand over a girl as compensation under the traditional and illegal practice known as Vani.
Police officials stated that the jirga also allegedly ordered the killing of the boy after he refused to accept the decision imposed upon him by the tribal gathering.
Authorities described the incident as a serious violation of law and human rights, emphasizing that such parallel justice systems and harmful customary practices are illegal under Pakistani law.
Following the emergence of the video and initial investigation, police registered a case against 12 suspects on behalf of the state. Law enforcement agencies have so far arrested eight accused individuals, while raids are ongoing to apprehend the remaining four suspects.
According to the contents of the First Information Report (FIR), the boy was also accused during the jirga proceedings of threatening the woman and allegedly making her disappear. Police are investigating all allegations linked to the case.
The practice of Vani, in which girls are forcibly given in marriage to settle disputes, has long been condemned by courts, human rights organizations, and civil society groups in Pakistan. Despite being declared illegal, incidents involving jirga-imposed punishments occasionally continue to emerge in some rural and tribal areas.
Legal experts say jirgas have no constitutional authority to issue criminal punishments or settle disputes through forced marriages. The Supreme Court of Pakistan and various high courts have repeatedly ruled against such practices and directed authorities to take strict action against those involved.
Human rights activists have expressed concern over the continued existence of illegal jirga systems, arguing that such decisions violate women’s rights, human dignity, and the rule of law. They have called for stronger enforcement measures to prevent tribal or informal councils from issuing unlawful verdicts.
Police officials in Sukkur stated that investigations are underway and further arrests are expected. Authorities have assured that all individuals involved in organizing or participating in the illegal jirga will be brought before the law.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many users demanding strict punishment for those responsible and stronger protection for women and vulnerable individuals against harmful customary practices.
