The Heartbreaking Story of Goli Kohkan: A Victim of Domestic Violence Facing Execution

Goli Kohkan's life is a harrowing tale of suffering and injustice. A victim of domestic violence, she faces execution for allegedly killing her abusive husband. Forced into marriage at a young age, Goli endured years of torment before her breaking point. The United Nations has condemned her sentencing, highlighting the systemic failures in Iran's judicial system regarding women's rights. With a demand for exorbitant Blood Money, Goli's future hangs in the balance, raising critical questions about justice and human rights. Read on to learn more about her tragic story and the implications it holds for women in similar situations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 6, 2026, 11:47 IST

A Tragic Tale of Goli Kohkan

Goli Kohkan's life story is profoundly tragic. From a young age, she has endured immense suffering. Now, she faces accusations of murdering her husband, with the possibility of execution looming this month. This is the story of Goli Kohkan, a girl whose dreams were shattered in childhood. Instead of playing with dolls, she became a mother at a tender age.

A Life Marked by Violence

Residing in Iran, Goli is a Baloch woman. The United Nations has warned that she may not see the dawn of 2026, as she could be executed at any moment. Accused of killing her abusive husband, Goli is now 25 years old. According to eight independent experts from the UN, her case exemplifies the gender discrimination faced by women in Iran's judicial system, particularly regarding child marriage and domestic violence. Executing her would violate international human rights laws.

Forced into Marriage at a Young Age

Goli was barely 12 when she was compelled to marry her cousin. By the age of 13, she had given birth to a son without any medical assistance, delivering the child at home.

Enduring Extreme Abuse

The hardships of early marriage and motherhood were just the beginning for Goli. She faced daily abuse from her husband, which escalated over time. By May 2018, at 18 years old, her husband began to physically assault both her and their five-year-old son. Unable to bear the sight of her child suffering, Goli's patience finally snapped.

Accusations of Murder

It is alleged that in a moment of desperation, she called a relative for help. The situation escalated into a confrontation, resulting in her husband's death. Since then, her fate has been in the hands of the Iranian courts, which have now sentenced her to death. The UN has strongly condemned this ruling, stating that Goli is a victim of domestic violence and systemic failures in the justice system. Executing her would be a grave injustice against a woman who sought to protect herself and her child.

Demand for Blood Money

Goli, who lacks education and legal representation, has faced pressure to accept the murder charges. Her execution could be averted if she pays a substantial amount of Blood Money, set at $90,000 (approximately 81 lakh rupees). This sum is exorbitant and beyond her means to raise.