Noor Muqaddam Murder Case: Zahir Jafar declared mentally fit, says medical board

Zahir Jafar, the main convict in the Noor Muqaddam murder case, has been declared mentally and psychologically healthy, according to sources familiar with the findings of a medical board.

The two-member medical team from PIMS (Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences), comprising a psychiatrist and a neurologist, conducted a comprehensive examination of Zahir Jafar on July 21.

The evaluation was carried out following a request from the Superintendent of Adiala Jail, where the convict is currently imprisoned.

Sources confirmed that the medical board found no signs of psychological illness, neurological disorder, or mental instability. Zahir Jafar was reported to have a normal temperament, and no evidence was found that would indicate any grounds for a psychiatric defense or claim of mental illness.

The examination came amid reports that Zahir Jafar’s family is preparing to file a mercy appeal, with the psychological assessment forming a crucial part of that potential plea. Zahir had himself requested the mental health evaluation as part of the groundwork for seeking clemency.

Zahir Jafar was sentenced to death for the brutal murder of Noor Muqaddam in a case that shocked the nation and sparked widespread outrage over violence against women.

Reporter: Babar Shahzad Turk