Alarming Increase in Suicide Rates Among Minority Hindus in Sindh, Pakistan

Islamabad, March 19 (NationPress) The surge in suicide incidents among the inhabitants of Tharparkar district in Sindh—a region predominantly home to Pakistan's Hindu population—has raised serious alarms within the minority community and various human rights organizations.

Reports indicate that approximately 700 individuals from Tharparkar, commonly referred to as Tharis, have taken their own lives over the past five years, with a significant portion of them belonging to the Hindu community, which constitutes a large part of the district’s population.

In 2024 alone, 146 Tharis, including 76 women, tragically ended their lives. As of this year, at least 19 individuals, including seven women, have already committed suicide.

"The recent weeks have seen six suicides, which is extremely concerning," stated Kashi Bajeer, Chairperson of Umeed Ghar, an organization focusing on suicide prevention and possessing considerable experience regarding the issues in the desert region.

Bajeer emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation into all cases from various perspectives to uncover the underlying causes, urging the district administration and local police to formulate a strategy to address this crisis.

The Tharis have endured numerous adversities, having been neglected by the authorities for decades, leading them to live in abject poverty. Many believe they are also grappling with a profound mental health crisis.

While authorities have yet to identify the root causes of the escalating suicide rates, experts attribute the persistent neglect of the Hindu community as a primary factor.

According to Faiza Ilyas, a rights activist, "The impacts are being felt by both Hindus and Muslims, with a higher incidence among Hindu scheduled castes."

Another contributing factor to the alarming suicide rates in Tharparkar is the dire situation regarding essential needs such as clean drinking water, employment, and basic health services, all of which escalate mental health challenges.

The Hindu community continues to face significant social issues, experiencing complete neglect from the provincial authorities, who have been accused of deliberately marginalizing them, resulting in severe crises and poverty.

Saima Masoom Ali, a principal investigator and faculty member at Karachi University's Department of Psychology, pointed out, "One identified cause of suicide is the burden of borrowing money on interest without the ability to repay it."

Experts advocate for urgent initiatives to shift mindsets, implement targeted mental health campaigns, and develop culturally sensitive programs to enhance the well-being of the Tharparkar community.