On January 29, Punjab Women Protection Authority Chairperson Hina Pervez Butt called for an immediate investigation into the death of a pregnant woman who succumbed to severe burns, reportedly inflicted by her mother-in-law in Ferozewala, Sheikhupura. The incident prompted widespread calls for stringent action against violence targeting women.

The victim, who was five months pregnant, sustained approximately 70% burns to her face, arms, and body. According to a statement from Butt’s office, local police were initially unaware of the incident until hospital authorities alerted them. Subsequently, legal proceedings were initiated and a case was registered based on a video statement from the victim, leading to the arrest of the mother-in-law, who was named as the suspect.

Reacting to the tragedy, Butt emphasized that such acts of violence against women are intolerable, stating, “Setting a pregnant woman on fire is the worst form of brutality, and such criminals deserve no leniency.” She highlighted that the directive from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif was clear—those guilty of crimes against women must face the law and receive exemplary punishment.

Butt assured that the Punjab Women Protection Authority would closely monitor the case and provide all necessary legal support to the victim’s family. She stressed the importance of swift and fair justice, affirming the commitment to a safe environment for women in Punjab.

The incident also drew condemnation from Pakistan People’s Party Senator Sherry Rehman, who echoed the sentiment of zero tolerance for such heinous acts. Rehman criticized the prevailing impunity in similar cases and called for the strictest legal penalties for perpetrators.

Authorities are now awaiting further details from the district police chief of Sheikhupura, as demanded by Butt, to ensure a thorough and expedited judicial process.