Structural Constraints and Women’s Socio-Political Marginalization in the Pukhtun Region of Pakistan: The Nexus of Pukhtunwali, Mullahs, and Pakistani State Laws

Abstract

Karo-kari: Sindhi term literally meaning black i.e. disreputable mandisreputable woman (who have brought disgrace to the family or clan), a 'crime' that allows culturally condoned killing in the name of honour of a man or woman charged with an illicit relationship.In Balochistan the term used is siyah kari.Ghairat: Loosely translated as honour but also refers to a chivalrous adherence to tradition.Jirga: An assembly of male elders, usually tribal, who make decisions regarding social issues; an informal body for resolving disputes.The term is Pushto but the practice exists across Pakistan.Decisions taken by them are known to be antiwomen.Panchayat: An assembly of elders of the community, always males, who are called upon to resolve disputes.Qisas and Diyat Ordinance: Law promulgated by the Ziaul Haq regime as Sharia law that allows compoundability of crimes including murder.Purdah: Veiling Na-mehram: All men