A court in the northern city of Istaravshan has instituted criminal proceedings against local 26-year-old man, who is charged with driving his wife to suicide. 

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Tajikistan, the incident occurred on the night of November 27-28.

"A man repeatedly humiliated and beat his 21-year-old wife.  After yet another beating, the woman attempted suicide by drinking vinegar solution," the report states.

A forensic medical examination confirmed that the woman sustained chemical burns to her esophagus, mouth, and stomach.

Criminal proceedings have been instituted against the suspect under Article 109 (2 of Tajikistan’s Penal Code -- incitement to suicide.  This article carries a penalty of five to eight years of imprisonment.

Suicides and suicide attempts in Tajikistan

Over the first six months of this year, 222 cases of suicide and suicide attempts have been recorded in the country, which is 11 cases fewer compared to the same period in 2023.

Of these, 175 cases were suicides (17 cases fewer than in the same period last year) and 47 cases were suicide attempts (6 cases more).

Mental illnesses, severe financial hardship and family conflicts remain the primary causes of suicides in the country.

This year, the number of suicides related to mental illnesses has increased by 33 cases compared to last year.  There has also been a rise in cases associated with financial difficulties and family conflicts.

Hanging remains the most common method (179 cases), followed by poisoning, drowning, and other means.

Domestic violence statistics in Tajikistan

In the first half of 2024, 1,569 complaints of domestic violence were registered, which is 65 cases more than in the same period last year.

Of the total complaints, 1,291 were filed by men (11 cases more than in 2023), and 278 complaints were filed by women (61 cases more).

Ms. Bunafsha Fayziddinzoda, head of the Committee for Women and Family Affairs under the Government of Tajikistan, emphasized that the statistics do not reflect the full scope of the issue.

Many women are reportedly reluctant to openly discuss family problems due to fear of judgment and potential consequences

Additionally, women often lack awareness about where to seek help and worry about the safety of themselves and their children.