Increasing suicide trend among girls triggers concern in Chitral

CHITRAL: The incidents of suicide have increased in both the districts as three girls ended their lives by jumping into the river over the last two weeks.

Two cases were reported in Upper Chitral and one in Lower Chitral, triggering deep concern among local residents. Despite recurring tragedies, investigations remain limited, while families are often unable to address the underlying causes.

Speaking at a press conference at the Chitral Press Club, social activists Fareeda Sultana and Roshan Aara expressed their deep concern. For the past three years, they said, they have been working to understand the reasons behind these suicides and to reduce their occurrence, but they admitted that success has been limited.

The activists announced the establishment of the Dastak Mercedes Centre in Chitral town. The centre will include a dedicated helpline, offering immediate psychological counseling from psychiatrists and legal assistance from lawyers to those at risk of suicide. The social activists said that the misuse of mobile phones, particularly cases involving blackmail, has played a significant role in driving young girls toward despair. They urged parents to monitor their daughters more closely and to engage with them in a friendly and supportive manner before problems escalate.

“Our goal is to provide not only psychological guidance but also to create an enabling environment where young girls feel heard and supported,” Fareeda went on to add.