Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said she is closely monitoring the investigation into the murder of 45-year-old digital designer Hina Javed, following reports that forensic examinations have indicated the possible involvement of a domestic worker.
Responding to a post by senior journalist Mubashir Zaidi on social media platform X, Maryam said DNA and polygraph test results pointed towards the alleged involvement of the domestic worker. She stressed, however, that the investigation into Hina’s murder and sexual assault had not yet been completed.
The case has attracted widespread attention, with investigators examining forensic evidence and reviewing the initial police investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Hina Javed Murder Case: Two Suspects Arrested
Hina, a 45-year-old digital designer, was found dead at her residence in Rawalpindi’s Lal Kurti area on August 20.
Police arrested her husband, Faisal Asghar Imam, and domestic worker Zeeshan Arshad in connection with the case. Both suspects underwent DNA and polygraph examinations at the Punjab Forensic Science Agency as investigators sought to determine their possible roles in the crime.
The allegations against the suspects remain subject to investigation and judicial determination.
High-Powered Committee Reviews Investigation
On September 30, the Punjab government formed a three-member high-powered committee to review the investigation after receiving forensic reports.
The committee is headed by Additional Inspector General of the Crime Control Department Sohail Zafar Chattha. It subsequently launched a fresh probe, examining forensic evidence, visiting the crime scene and reviewing potential shortcomings in the original investigation.
The review is intended to assess the available evidence and determine whether any aspects of the earlier police inquiry require further investigation.
Hina Javed Murder Case: Husband and Domestic Worker Sent on Physical Remand
Autopsy Report Reveals Extensive Injuries
A recently reported autopsy examination found extensive injuries on Hina’s body, including a broken neck, a deep wound to the back of her head and multiple signs of violence.
The findings have added to concerns surrounding the circumstances of her death and the need for a thorough investigation.
Meanwhile, Hina’s family has repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the case and called for a judicial commission to ensure an independent and transparent inquiry.
National Assembly Committee Seeks Police Briefing
The case has also reached the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior, which has summoned senior Punjab police officials to provide a briefing scheduled for October 29.
The meeting is expected to bring further attention to the progress of the investigation and the steps being taken by authorities to address concerns surrounding the case.
Maryam Nawaz has said she is closely monitoring developments, but investigators have yet to conclude their inquiry.
As the investigation continues, the key questions remain whether all available forensic evidence has been fully examined, whether any shortcomings in the initial probe have been addressed and whether the findings will establish responsibility for Hina Javed’s death.
Authorities have not announced a final conclusion, and the allegations against the suspects must be determined through the legal process.
