A trial court in Islamabad has sentenced Shahnawaz Amir to death for the murder of Sarah Inam, a significant development in the case. More than a year after the tragic killing, District and Sessions Judge Nasir Javed Rana issued the reserved verdict, offering some relief to Sarah’s devastated parents.
As the verdict came out, emotions ran high, with Sarah’s father visibly relieved. Shahnawaz got a penalty of Rs1 million, which went to the grieving family.
Shahnawaz Amir murdered Canadian Sarah Inam shortly after she arrived in Pakistan from Dubai in September of the previous year. He arrested from Islamabad’s Shahzad Town, he is the son of journalist Ayaz Amir.
Samina Shah, Shahnawaz’s mother, who also faced charges in the case, received an exemption from the court. The verdict came after a lengthy legal process that included many hearings, witness testimony, and forensic examinations.
Reaction of the Sarah’s Family:
Inaumur Rahim, Sarah’s father, spoke to the media following the verdict, expressing relief with Shahnawaz’s punishment. He had concerns about Shahnawaz’s mother, Samina Shah, and suspected her involvement in the crime.
Rahim stressed the importance of Samina’s sentencing and urged continued investigation into the situation.
Rahim called the Chief Justice’s attention to the persisting uncertainty surrounding Noor Mukadam’s case. Despite the fact that the judicial proceedings took longer, Rahim saw Shahnawaz’s sentencing as a beneficial consequence.
The case, which was initially registered under Section 302 of the Pakistan Penal Code, evolved when Section 109 (penalty for abetment) was later added. Following an application from Sarah’s uncle, the police acted as complainants, and the FIR included allegations against Shahnawaz’s parents, Sameena, and journalist Ayaz Amir.
The ruling of the Islamabad High Court adds another chapter to the legal history of gender-based violence. The verdict not only brings Sarah Inam justice, but it also establishes a precedent for future instances.
