Afghan girl wants her tormentors imprisoned
Summary of story from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, January 9, 2012
As Sahar Gul, a 15-year-old Afghan newlywed, recovers from severe trauma in hospital in Afghanistan she asks only that the people who tortured her be put in prison.
Gul was near death when she was rescued two weeks ago after allegedly being tortured by her husband and in-laws for several months (see WVoN story).
Although her physical condition has improved, doctors say that it will take significantly more time for her psychological wounds to heal.
Ghamaredin Hafez, head of the Kabul hospital where Gul is being treated, said: “She was in such critical condition when she was brought here that she wasn’t expected to survive… She’s been psychologically deeply harmed. What she needs is a secure atmosphere and absolute rest.”
While very weak and barely able to speak, Gul said that the Afghan government should punish those who tortured her.
“Put them in prison. That is all I want,” she said.
Her plight has attracted domestic and international attention because of the abuse that she suffered and the fact that it is her husband’s family that are accused of carrying it out.
And it has also underlined concerns about the bleak situation women in Afghanistan face, where many are routinely subjected to abuse (see WVoN coverage) and discrimination.
