Alarm regarding suspected extrajudicial killings escalated after Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz politician Hina Parvez Butt commended the fatalities of two suspects in separate police operations, calling the outcomes justice.
Butt posted a news article detailing the death of Tauqeer Nazir, who faced accusations of running over and killing 15-year-old Waseem Abbas in Multan.
Authorities stated that Nazir died in a police encounter close to Bahawalpur. According to police accounts, he broke free from custody and suffered fatal gunshots from his alleged accomplices when law enforcement tried to take him back into custody.
Through a post on X that she later deleted, Butt commended the Punjab administration, stating, "This is Maryam Nawaz's government, where justice is delivered immediately."
Previously, regarding the Laiba Ejaz case, Butt distributed a news report concerning the death of Muhammad Noman, a suspect accused of defrauding the university student. Reports indicated that Noman died during an assault on police officers in Islamabad.
Responding to this development, Butt stated, "Alhamdulillah, Laiba has received justice."
These comments sparked backlash among attorneys, media workers, and social media participants, who challenged how fatalities of suspects bypassing a trial or judicial ruling qualify as justice.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan voiced worry regarding the death of Nazir and demanded a clear, independent inquiry. The organization emphasized the necessity of accountability and due process in situations involving suspected extrajudicial killings.
In response to the removed post by Butt, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari stated that the politician had earlier issued remarks that embarrassed the administration. She additionally dismissed allegations that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed police encounters.
