In a tragic incident in Quetta, Pakistan, a 15-year-old American-born girl was shot and killed by her father, Anwar ul-Haq, allegedly due to his disapproval of her TikTok videos. The family had recently returned to Pakistan after living in the United States for approximately 25 years.
Incident Details
The victim, identified as Hira, had been active on TikTok, sharing content that her father deemed objectionable. Despite his demands to cease her online activities, Hira continued to post videos. On January 29, 2025, Anwar ul-Haq, with the alleged assistance of his brother-in-law, Tayyab Ali, fatally shot his daughter. Initially, ul-Haq claimed that unidentified assailants were responsible for the shooting, but he later confessed to the crime.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Authorities have arrested both ul-Haq and Ali in connection with the murder. Police are investigating the case from multiple angles, including the possibility of it being an “honor killing,” a practice where individuals are murdered by relatives for actions perceived to bring shame to the family. Hira’s mobile phone has been seized as part of the investigation, though it remains locked.
Context of Honor Killings in Pakistan
Honor killings remain a significant issue in Pakistan, with over 1,000 women reportedly killed each year by relatives who believe their actions have dishonored the family. Such actions can include refusing arranged marriages, seeking divorce, or engaging in activities deemed inappropriate by conservative standards. Despite legal reforms aimed at curbing this practice, enforcement remains challenging, and perpetrators often evade severe punishment.
Social Media and Cultural Tensions
This incident highlights the ongoing cultural tensions in Pakistan regarding social media usage, particularly among young women. Platforms like TikTok have gained immense popularity, especially among the youth, leading to generational conflicts within families over issues of privacy, freedom of expression, and adherence to traditional values. The Pakistani government has intermittently banned TikTok, citing concerns over “immoral” and “indecent” content, reflecting the broader societal debate over modernity and tradition.
As the investigation continues, this tragic event underscores the need for addressing deep-rooted cultural issues and implementing effective legal measures to protect individuals’ rights, particularly those of young women, in Pakistan.
