Jigmi Wangdi

A 34-year-old single mother in Tapa, Samtse, faced a distressing situation when her 15-year-old daughter complained of persistent stomach pain around December last year. Upon seeking medical attention, she discovered that her daughter was five months pregnant.

The pregnant daughter with a seizure disorder has reportedly indicated that her uncle impregnated her.

The victim’s mother said that she works in gathering and sorting betel nuts, maize, and various vegetables. “I often have to leave my daughter alone at home.”

The victim, according to her mother, speaks only Lhop dialect.

“The doctors advised me to take care of my daughter, and that’s exactly what I’m doing every day. I’m doing my best to gather funds from various sources, even borrowing from others, just to provide her with the support she needs,” the mother said.

Following the revelation of her daughter’s pregnancy, she sought assistance from RENEW on December 18, 2023. Recognising the gravity of the situation, RENEW referred the matter to the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP).

The suspect was soon detained. However, due to the delay in reporting the case, which occurred five months prior, RBP encountered difficulties in gathering substantial evidence to press charges against the suspect. And, so, they were only able to detain him for a period of two weeks.

“We are monitoring the progress of the girl’s pregnancy closely. DNA test is required, crucial for confirming the charges, as there is currently no other substantial evidence available,” said an RBP official.