KARACHI: A tragic case of domestic violence has emerged from Lyari, where a 19-year-old newlywed woman died at Civil Hospital after suffering horrific injuries allegedly inflicted by her husband. The victim, who was admitted to the Trauma Centre on July 4 in critical condition, passed away on Wednesday due to pulmonary arrest, according to hospital officials.
The hospital confirmed that the young woman was brought in unconscious, with severe internal injuries. Doctors performed emergency abdominal surgery and had to remove half of her intestines due to extensive damage. “Her lungs were filled with fluid, and she never regained consciousness after being placed on a ventilator,” said medical staff at the hospital.
Authorities identified the victim’s husband as Ashok, who has since been arrested. A formal complaint was registered at Baghdadi Police Station in Lyari based on a statement filed by the victim’s brother. A First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged, and further investigations are underway.
The young woman had reportedly been married on June 15, less than three weeks before she was hospitalized. Her family told police that her health began deteriorating soon after the marriage, prompting them to bring her back to their home. It was then that the victim confided in her parents, revealing that her husband had subjected her to extreme sexual violence, allegedly using a foreign object. The FIR also states that the suspect threatened the woman with dire consequences if she told anyone about the abuse.
Human rights organizations and women’s rights advocates have also stepped in, condemning the horrific abuse and calling it a tragic reminder of the systemic failures in protecting vulnerable women. Prominent activists have issued strong statements urging the government and judiciary to enforce stricter implementation of existing laws meant to safeguard women from violence within the household.
“There must be zero tolerance for such brutality. This case is not an isolated incident—it reflects a broader, deeply-rooted problem in our society,” said one activist, emphasizing the urgent need for institutional reform. Several advocacy groups are now demanding that the investigation be conducted transparently and without delay, ensuring that the accused is held fully accountable under the law.
Legal experts have also weighed in, calling for the establishment of fast-track courts to handle gender-based violence cases and improved support systems for survivors, including access to legal aid, psychological counseling, and shelter services.
