Who Is Sidra? Tragic Story of a Young Woman Allegedly Killed by Jirga Order in Rawalpindi

In a deeply disturbing incident that has shaken Pakistan, a young woman named Sidra was allegedly murdered on July 17, 2025, in Pirwadhai, Rawalpindi—reportedly on the orders of a local jirga (tribal council). Her crime: marrying the man she loved.

Sidra had chosen to marry Zia-ur-Rehman, a decision that was not accepted by her family or community elders. Facing immense pressure and threats after her marriage, she initially fled to Kashmir for safety. However, she was later brought back—under unknown circumstances—and reportedly strangled to death.

What makes this case even more tragic is the alleged attempt to hide the crime. Sidra was buried in secret at night, and the grave marker was removed to eliminate any trace of her burial. This act points toward a deliberate effort to destroy evidence and avoid legal accountability.

The case came to light after Sidra’s husband, Zia-ur-Rehman, lodged a formal complaint. He accused her of running away with another man named Usman and stealing jewelry and money. However, he later claimed that Sidra had been killed by her family as part of an honor killing.

Police have since:

• Arrested the former chairman of the graveyard committee and the gravedigger.

• Registered a FIR (First Information Report) based on Zia-ur-Rehman’s complaint.

• Requested court permission for exhumation to determine the exact cause of death.

Magistrate Qaisar Abbas Tarrar has issued notices to Sidra’s family for a hearing on July 26, and ordered strict security around her grave to prevent any tampering with evidence.

The court emphasized that a transparent and thorough investigation is required. Police officials confirmed that exhumation and a post-mortem will be carried out to determine the actual cause of death, as conflicting accounts and secrecy surround the incident.

Sidra’s death is a painful reminder of the dangers women in Pakistan still face when exercising autonomy in matters of marriage and relationships. Coming shortly after the Balochistan double murder case, this incident further highlights the urgent need to address honor-based violence and illegal tribal justice systems operating outside of the law.

As the country waits for the exhumation report and further legal proceedings, Sidra’s case is becoming a symbol of systemic injustice, where patriarchal traditions often silence women—even in death.