15th November 2024
We have all recently seen the trial of Sara Sharif’s tragic death unfold in court and heard references to Honour Based Abuse. Sara, just 10 years old, endured severe injuries, adding to the heartbreak surrounding this case.
Sara’s stepmother, Beinash Batool, claimed she had been a victim of HBA, having been placed in a refuge as a teenager. Batool’s lawyer has refuted claims by Sara’s father, Urfan Sharif, that Batool was violent toward Sara, instead portraying Sharif as controlling, abusive, and manipulative. It was suggested that when Sharif first met Batool, she was “vulnerable.”
Sharif admitted in court to beating and killing his 10-year-old daughter, but pleaded not guilty to her murder. Previously, Sharif had put the blame on Batool and claimed he was out of the house working when the abuse was going on. This case has striking parallels with cases such as Shafilea Ahmed’s, where multiple family members were involved, and HBA was raised in defence.
HBA cases often reveal complex dynamics, sometimes involving multiple individuals and perpetuating cycles of control and abuse.
The case also raises questions about the decisions made in family courts, particularly around granting custody to a parent with a history of violence. Despite social services’ documented concerns about the risks posed, Sara was placed in Sharif’s care. Jurors have since learned that Sharif was previously ordered to complete a domestic violence perpetrator program due to allegations of violence toward his previous partner. Before gaining custody, Sharif was limited to supervised visits, but the court ultimately granted him full custody, largely due to the support of Batool.
This highlights the critical need for family courts to give the utmost seriousness to allegations of past violence and to place child safety at the forefront of every decision. When past abuse is overlooked, the consequences can be devastating. In this tragic case, Sara paid the ultimate price due to decisions that may not have fully considered the potential risks.
While the case continues, we remember Sara and honour her memory. At just 10 years old, she deserved a full, safe, and happy life.
#WeRemember