Debatable remedy

THE Pakistan Psychiatric Society’s challenge to the Federal Shariat Court’s ruling on attempted suicide deserves careful consideration. The issue at stake is not whether suicide is permissible in Islam. It is not. Rather, the question is whether a failed suicide attempt should be treated as a crime punishable by the state or as a public health emergency requiring medical intervention and psychological support. The distinction matters because the consequences of getting it wrong can be profound. The psychiatrists have advanced a compelling argument. They contend that while Islam unequivocally prohibits suicide, a specific worldly punishment is not prescribed for those who survive an attempt. They argue that there is a difference between something being a sin and being a crime. While faith forbids suicide, not every act considered sinful is punished under criminal law. Their appeal also raises an important constitutional question: should courts decide such matters, or should elected lawmakers determine public policy and criminal laws?

Equally important are the practical implications. Contemporary medical evidence shows that suicidal behaviour is frequently linked to mental illness, trauma, domestic abuse, addiction or severe socioeconomic distress. Individuals who attempt suicide often need urgent treatment and long-term support. The threat of arrest or prosecution may deter vulnerable people and their families from seeking help, increasing the risk of future harm. Pakistan already struggles with inadequate mental health services, stigma and limited public awareness. Reintroducing criminal liability is unlikely to address the underlying causes of suicide. Instead, it may push those in crisis further into the shadows. The state’s responsibility should be to preserve life through accessible care, counselling and prevention strategies. The Supreme Court’s Shariat Appellate Bench now has an opportunity to reaffirm that compassion and rehabilitation, rather than punishment, offer the more effective and humane response to one of society’s most difficult challenges.

Published in Dawn, June 25th, 2026

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