Sara Sharif, a 10-year-old schoolgirl, was subjected to horrific abuse before her tragic death last year. The court heard that Sara was forced to wear a hijab in order to hide the injuries she sustained from her family’s abuse. Neighbours reported hearing disturbing sounds coming from Sara’s family home in the years leading up to her death, including screams and smacking.
Sara’s father, Urfan Sharif, stepmother, Beinash Batool, and paternal uncle, Faisal Malik, are accused of carrying out a violent campaign of abuse before ultimately killing her. The defendants fled to Pakistan after Sara’s death, with Sharif confessing to police that he had beaten Sara excessively as punishment. A note left by Sharif near Sara’s body indicated that he did not intend to kill her, but lost control.
The court was told that Sara began wearing a hijab in an attempt to conceal her injuries from the outside world. She was withdrawn from school and homeschooled after teachers noticed bruises on her body. The prosecutor revealed that Sara’s family used homemade hoods, a cricket bat, a rolling pin, rope, and other objects to inflict harm on her.
Neighbours and messages from Batool to her sisters provided further insight into the abuse Sara endured. Batool expressed concern about Sara’s well-being in messages to her sisters, indicating that she was aware of the abuse taking place in the household. Previous neighbours also reported hearing disturbing noises coming from the family’s home.
The defendants have pleaded not guilty to murder and causing or allowing the death of a child. The trial is ongoing, with more details expected to emerge in the coming days. Sara’s tragic story sheds light on the devastating impact of child abuse and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.
It is crucial for communities to be vigilant and report any signs of abuse or neglect to ensure the safety of children. By speaking up and taking action, we can prevent future tragedies like the one that befell Sara Sharif. Let us honor her memory by advocating for the protection of all children and standing against abuse in all its forms.
