Taliban Bans Funeral Rites for Suicide Victims; Hiding a Social Crisis?

Kokcha News Agency – The Taliban’s governor in Ghazni has issued a directive, reportedly on the orders of Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhundzada, prohibiting public funeral ceremonies and prayers for individuals who die by suicide. Abdul Samad Javid, the Taliban governor, has instructed local authorities to prevent any gatherings related to these individuals.

Since the Taliban’s return to power, suicide rates in Afghanistan have surged dramatically, with reports of new cases emerging almost daily. Social experts attribute this alarming trend to psychological pressures, severe social restrictions, poverty, and widespread despair.

The Taliban claims the ban is aimed at preventing the “promotion of suicide,” but a knowledgeable source told media outlets that the decision is more about concealing the true scale of the crisis rather than addressing its root causes.

The source also made shocking allegations of systematic violence, claiming that some victims labeled as “suicides” are actually victims of sexual violence and organized killings by Taliban fighters. In some cases, children and girls are reportedly hanged after being assaulted and recorded as suicides to cover up the crimes.

While the ban on funeral rites for suicide victims may appear to be a religious or disciplinary measure, it risks deepening social silence and destroying transparency. This policy not only hides the real statistics but also doubles the pain and suffering of families, fostering an environment of fear and self-censorship.