Suicides in Pakistan

Sir: The issue of suicide in Pakistan is quite sensitive but that does not stop it from being discussed, even if it is done so in hushed tones and whispers. Being against Islamic law and frowned upon by cultural norms, news of such incidents is treated as too sensitive a subject and is put away and kept hidden under lock and key. But still that does not dissuade the twittering of the neighbourhood khalas and phuppos (aunts) at funerals of the deceased and at events that follow the aftermath of such tragedies. Judgmental remarks on the dead are made, on their past and on their character all because of how they chose to leave this world. The fact that they have passed away or why they chose to end their life is not treated as a concern; how they passed is their biggest worry.
Should the cause and the reason for the existence of the event not be more of a concern for society as opposed to the event itself? Only when we find the source of the problem do we find the solution. The source may be closer than one would think.
SYEDA MAHEEN QADRI
Karachi