13-Year-Old Girl Shot Dead by Cousin for Not Wearing Burqa in Pakistan

MIANWALI: A 13-year-old girl was brutally murdered in broad daylight by her cousin for not wearing a burqa while shopping with her father in Mianwali on October 17, 2026. The assailant fired seven shots, resulting in the girl’s immediate death.

The police swiftly apprehended the suspect following the incident, which has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about women’s rights and safety in the region. Local authorities confirmed that the victim was targeted specifically for her choice of attire, highlighting the ongoing societal pressures surrounding women’s clothing in Pakistan.

This tragic event underscores the alarming trend of violence against women in Pakistan, where cultural and familial expectations often lead to severe repercussions for those who defy traditional norms. Activists are calling for stronger legal protections and societal change to prevent such heinous acts in the future.

Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the murder, with community leaders urging for immediate reforms to address the underlying issues of gender-based violence. The case will likely be monitored closely by human rights organizations both locally and internationally.