Brutal Axe Attack in Punjab Leaves Mother Dead, Daughter Critical Over Inter-Caste Marriage Dispute

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A tragic case of caste-based violence has shaken a village in Punjab, Pakistan, after a mother was killed and her daughter critically injured in a brutal axe attack allegedly carried out by close family members. The violence stemmed from a dispute over a planned marriage outside the family’s caste, highlighting the persistence of rigid social structures that continue to dominate parts of rural society.

Pakeeza Bibi and her husband, Saeed Mughal, had reportedly arranged for their daughter, Noor Fatima, to marry a young man from the Khokhar community. Although the marriage was to take place within their village, the Khokhar caste is different from the Mughal family’s own. That difference, according to authorities, became a source of deep resentment for some of Saeed’s relatives, particularly his brother, Ali Mughal.

Rather than accept the family’s decision, Ali and other relatives are accused of taking violent action. On the day of the attack, Ali Mughal and several accomplices allegedly entered the family’s home armed with axes. Pakeeza was struck multiple times and died at the scene. Noor Fatima was also severely injured and remains in critical condition at a local hospital.

The Punjab police have launched a criminal investigation and say arrests are ongoing. “We are treating this as a premeditated act of violence rooted in caste discrimination,” a police spokesperson stated. “Those responsible will be held accountable.”

Caste divisions, though not formally recognized by the Pakistani legal system, remain deeply rooted in many rural communities, influencing everything from marriage to employment and social standing. In this case, the attack reflects the extent to which some still view marrying outside one’s caste as an act of betrayal or dishonor, even at the cost of human life.

Honor-based violence continues to plague parts of South Asia, often targeting women and girls for choices that defy traditional family expectations. In many cases, perpetrators are relatives acting with a warped sense of justice, attempting to “restore” family honor. According to human rights groups, such violence often goes underreported and, in some instances, unpunished due to cultural taboos and gaps in enforcement.

This incident has sparked outrage among local activists, who are calling for immediate legal action and stronger protection for women. “We cannot continue to allow caste or family pride to override basic human rights,” one local women’s rights advocate said in a statement.

As Noor Fatima fights for her life, the case now stands as a grim reminder of the price some pay for challenging long-standing traditions. It also puts pressure on the justice system to act swiftly and decisively, not only to bring the attackers to justice but to send a clear message: caste-based violence has no place in a modern society.