Maryam says DNA tests point to domestic worker in Hina Javed case

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said DNA and polygraph test results point to the alleged involvement of a domestic worker in the murder and sexual assault of digital designer Hina Javed. However, she stressed that the investigation remains underway and no final conclusion has been reached.

The chief minister made the remarks on Saturday while responding to a social media post by senior journalist Mubashir Zaidi, who highlighted the case. Maryam said she was closely monitoring the investigation and assured that the authorities were following developments.

Hina, 45, was found dead at her residence in Rawalpindi’s Lal Kurti area on August 20. Police subsequently arrested her husband, Faisal Asghar Imam, and their domestic worker, Zeeshan Arshad, in connection with the case.

As part of the investigation, forensic experts conducted DNA and polygraph examinations of both suspects at the Punjab Forensic Science Agency. Investigators sought to establish their possible involvement through forensic evidence and other investigative procedures.

On September 30, the Punjab government formed a three-member high-powered committee to review the case following the receipt of forensic reports. The committee is headed by Additional Inspector General of the Crime Control Department Sohail Zafar Chattha.

Following its formation, the committee initiated a fresh review of the investigation. Its members examined forensic evidence, visited the crime scene and assessed possible shortcomings in the initial police inquiry.

The case has drawn considerable attention, with Hina’s family repeatedly raising concerns about the progress of the investigation. Relatives have called for a judicial commission to ensure an independent and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding her death.

An autopsy report has also highlighted the severity of the injuries sustained by Hina. According to the report, her body bore extensive signs of violence, including a broken neck, a deep wound to the back of her head and multiple other injuries.

The matter has also reached the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior, which has summoned senior Punjab police officials to brief it on the investigation. The briefing is scheduled for October 29.

Maryam’s latest statement comes as investigators continue examining the available evidence and the suspects’ possible roles in the crime. The findings of the forensic tests are part of the ongoing investigation and do not, on their own, establish criminal guilt.

The case remains under investigation, and the allegations against both suspects will be subject to determination through the legal process.