The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection is initiating outreach efforts to assist the daughter of Latchman Krishna, a 54-year-old taxi driver who allegedly killed his wife, Artika Kumari, before taking his own life in a tragic incident in Malolo, Nadi. This heartbreaking event unfolded recently, sending shockwaves through the community and highlighting the dire need for effective discussions about domestic violence and mental health.

Minister Sashi Kiran expressed deep sorrow over the impact this has had on a young life. She lamented the ongoing issue of domestic violence, pointing out that despite the mechanisms in place to combat it, more needs to be done. “When the person was in the cell overnight, he probably had major anger issues and he didn’t receive the right kind of counselling,” Ms. Kiran explained, emphasizing the need for proper mental health support for men facing similar challenges.

The couple’s nine-year-old daughter witnessed the tumultuous events leading to this tragedy. Reports indicate that she sought help from her uncle when tensions escalated, which unfortunately ended in tragedy. Family members had noticed escalating issues, with Artika having filed a police report against Latchman for assault just a day prior to the incident. This event further underscores the complex dynamics within households that can lead to devastating outcomes.

Authorities are now calling for increased mental health support and community involvement to address domestic conflicts before they escalate. This incident serves as a painful reminder of how unresolved tensions can lead to heartbreaking consequences, and it highlights the urgent necessity for proactive community support systems aimed at preventing future tragedies.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to ponder the loss of Artika Kumari and Latchman Krishna, while fostering hope that their tragic story will inspire more significant actions surrounding mental health advocacy, ultimately leading to a more empathetic society. Engaging in open conversations about mental health and providing support can help alleviate similar situations in the future.

In summary, the collective mourning of this event underscores the critical importance of awareness surrounding mental health and domestic issues, aiming to prevent further tragedies in the community and beyond.