A verdict has been issued in the case of the tragic death of 2-year-old Sudais at the private nursery "Pochemuchka" in Dushanbe’s Sino district. The head of the institution, Rukhshona Ismatulloyeva, has been sentenced to 6 years in prison, while the nursery teacher, Boghigul Rahimova, received a 5-year sentence.
According to a source familiar with the trial proceedings, the verdict was issued by the Sino district court in the capital, though the exact date of the decision has not been disclosed. The court also took into account the fact that both defendants have minor children and deferred the execution of their sentences until their children reach the age of 8. The exact age of the children was not revealed.
The tragedy at the nursery
The tragedy occurred in May 2025 when 2-year-old Sudais died after getting caught in the metal bars of a bunk bed during nap time at the nursery. The incident sparked widespread public outrage and raised concerns about child safety in preschool institutions across the country.
Charges and investigation
Criminal proceedings were instituted against 29-year-old teacher Boghigul Rahimova under Article 175 of the Criminal Code of Tajikistan, which pertains to "failure to properly ensure the safety of a minor's life and health."
The investigation also revealed that the "Pochemuchka" nursery was operating without a valid license, as its license had expired earlier in 2025.
The Minister of Education and Science Rahim Saidzoda announced at a press conference that the nursery had been shut down following the tragedy.
Prosecutor General of Tajikistan Habibullo Vohidzoda stated that criminal proceedings had been initiated against five individuals, including the assistant teacher, who was supposed to be monitoring the child’s condition, the nursery director, two officials from the Ministry of Education responsible for licensing preschools, and a sanitary doctor who oversaw the operation of such institutions.
He further clarified that the investigation had been completed, and the case was sent to court on August 4.
Accountability of other individuals involved
Details regarding the sentences for other individuals involved in the case have not been disclosed.
This case has once again drawn attention to the issue of child safety in preschool institutions and the licensing of private nurseries in Tajikistan, triggering widespread public debate.
