Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar asserted on Tuesday that the verdict in the Umme Rubab case was reached after a fair judicial process, clarifying that the Sindh government was not involved as a party in the matter. Speaking at a joint press conference in Karachi alongside Sharjeel Inam Memon, the minister highlighted that the court issued a comprehensive judgment after allowing both the prosecution and defense ample opportunity to present their arguments.
Lanjar, who is also a lawyer, acknowledged certain weaknesses in the evidence but maintained that the trial was conducted fairly for both sides. He cautioned against criticizing the judge on social media platforms, deeming such actions inappropriate. The minister further emphasized that the complainant retains the right to file an appeal, reiterating that the government holds no stake in the case.
In a significant development, the minister condemned the aerial firing incidents reported following the verdict announcement and instructed law enforcement agencies to register First Information Reports (FIRs) against those responsible. He stressed that no individual is above the law and recalled that similar episodes of firing outside courts have occurred previously. Lanjar also noted that the sessions judge had carefully considered the prevailing law and order situation when delivering the verdict.
Earlier, on Monday, a model criminal court delivered its judgment in the high-profile Mehar triple murder case, acquitting all eight accused individuals implicated in the killing of Umme Rubab Chandio’s family after an extensive eight-year legal battle. Among those acquitted were prominent Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) figures Sardar Ahmed Chandio and his brother Burhan Khan Chandio, as well as former SHO Karim Chandio, Sattar Chandio, Ali Gohar Chandio, Murtaza Chandio, Sikandar Chandio, and Zulfiqar Chandio.
Strict security arrangements were enforced in and around the court premises during the verdict announcement. The tragic incident occurred in Mehar, Sindh, on January 17, 2018, when armed assailants attacked a residence, killing Umme Rubab’s father, grandfather, and uncle. The victims included Raees Karamullah Chandio, then chairman of the Baldia Union Council in Mehar taluka, along with his two sons — Mukhtiar Chandio, a district council member, and another son affiliated with the Tumandar Council.
