Relatives of Fallen Soldiers Denied Death Certificates, Says MP

Relatives of fallen soldiers are unable to obtain death certificates for their loved ones. When the deceased were discharged from the Yerevan Forensic Medical Center, their families were told, "Go, you can come back later, we will provide you with the documentation; we can't handle it right now." This was reported by Anna Costanyan, a member of the LHK faction, on her Facebook page, where she also shared a video of her speech in the National Assembly.

In her speech, she stated, "After the autopsies of the civilians who died in this war, it turns out that death certificates are not being issued for these individuals. It is unclear why this is the case. Citizens do not raise this issue publicly for objective reasons, as they are in mourning and are trying to approach the heavy responsibilities of the relevant authorities with understanding. However, after some time, it becomes evident that the conditions of the autopsy, the circumstances of death, the fact that this person died in the war, and the necessary evidence cannot be clarified in any way.

For example, a body confirmed to be from Metsamor via DNA analysis and transferred to the forensic center on Heratsi Street has been released for burial by relatives, but it turns out that they cannot obtain a death certificate because the autopsy doctor cannot be found. No authorized body is able to provide a coherent explanation as to why.

I urge the Ministry of Health to investigate this matter thoroughly if they are unaware of it and to determine how it is possible that death certificates for the deceased are not being issued. I hope there is no ulterior motive in this situation. If any citizens have encountered similar situations, please contact me."