Armenian MP raises alarm over suicides and self-injuries in  penitentiaries 

ArmInfo. Opposition MP from the "Armenia" parliamentary faction Garnik Danielyan expressed concern about the increase in fatalities and acts of self-harm in  penitentiary institutions (PII) of Armenia.

The MP pointed to another case of suicide in one of the country's  prisons, noting that six deaths have already been registered since  the beginning of the year, four of which are suicides. Danielyan also  drew attention to the fact that many prisoners repeatedly resort to  acts of self-harm.

"Fatal cases and statistics of acts of self-harm among convicts and  prisoners should be perceived as an alarming signal. For several  months, I have been emphasizing that there is chaos in penitentiary  institutions.  There are no basic conditions, prisoners do not  receive the necessary medications and medical services.  There are  not even psychologists and doctors who could change this situation,"  Danielyan wrote on his Facebook account. 

The MP also pointed out the connection between the increase in the  number of tragic incidents and the unjustified delays in court  proceedings. According to him, cases can be considered for up to a  year if the early release institute does not work properly. He  assured that such a situation is due to ignoring previously raised  issues and proposals that were sent to both former and current  ministers and deputy ministers of justice, as well as the Ombudsman  of Armenia, but no efforts have been made to change the situation.

"Nevertheless, we are talking about human lives. I am sure that by  showing will and taking the necessary measures, we will be able to  prevent cases of death, suicide and self-harm," the MP concluded.

ArmInfo was unable to reach the Investigative Committee of Armenia  for confirmation and additional information regarding the suicide of  one of the prisoners in the penitentiary.