Son Keeps Mother's Body at Home for Three Days in Kollam

Doha, Qatar Jul 25, 2026 ALN: Kollam: An 80-year-old woman's body was discovered inside her home in Kollam after her son kept it there for three days without informing anyone, according to police reports released on Saturday. The incident has raised several questions regarding mental health, familial responsibilities, and the societal implications of such tragic circumstances.

The deceased woman has been identified as Chinnathamma, a long-time resident of the Rehabilitation Plantations Limited (RPL) Colony in Kulathupuzha. Her son, 60-year-old Krishnaswamy, who lived with her, was found in close proximity to the body when authorities arrived. The discovery of Chinnathamma's body has shocked the local community, prompting discussions about the importance of mental health awareness and the support systems available for individuals struggling with mental health issues.

According to the Kulathupuzha police, the alarming situation came to light on Friday morning when Krishnaswamy's daughter, Damayanthi, visited the family home. She had been asked by her father to bring her Aadhaar card and other documents necessary for processing his retirement benefits. Upon her arrival, Damayanthi inquired about her grandmother's whereabouts. Krishnaswamy responded that Chinnathamma was lying on the bed and had passed away three days earlier. Concerned, she entered the bedroom and found her grandmother deceased on a cot, covered with a blanket. Disturbed by the sight, Damayanthi immediately alerted neighbors, who subsequently contacted the police.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the police indicate that Chinnathamma likely died from age-related causes. This raises broader questions about the care and support provided to elderly individuals, particularly those who may not have immediate family members capable of looking after them. As the population ages, the importance of community resources and healthcare services for the elderly becomes increasingly critical. Societies around the world are grappling with the challenges posed by an aging demographic, and this incident in Kollam serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly.

In a statement regarding the case, an officer from the Kulathupuzha police department revealed that Krishnaswamy has been undergoing treatment for mental health issues. The officer noted that while Krishnaswamy seemed to have understood that his mother had died, his mental condition likely hindered his ability to communicate this tragic news to anyone. Instead, it appears he chose to keep the body on the cot, covered with a blanket, possibly out of a misguided sense of respect or denial. This behavior raises important discussions about the stigma surrounding mental health in many communities, where individuals may feel ashamed to seek help or disclose their struggles.

Further investigation revealed that incense sticks had been lit near the body, which could suggest an attempt to mask the odor as decomposition began to set in. This detail adds a layer of complexity to the situation, indicating Krishnaswamy's possible belief in maintaining a semblance of normalcy or ritualistic behavior in the face of his mother's death. The act of lighting incense can be seen as a cultural or religious gesture, reflecting the deep-seated traditions that often accompany death in many societies. However, it also illustrates the desperate measures one might take when overwhelmed by grief and mental distress.

Despite circulating rumors within the local community that Krishnaswamy had been engaging in black magic or occult rituals, police have dismissed these claims. The investigation found no credible evidence to support such allegations. Instead, officers emphasized that Krishnaswamy is a religious individual who regularly offers prayers, and there is no indication that he was involved in any form of witchcraft or malevolent practices. This highlights the tendency of communities to speculate and spread rumors in the absence of clear information, which can further complicate an already tragic situation. In a time of crisis, misinformation can exacerbate the pain and suffering of those involved, as families and individuals navigate their grief amidst public scrutiny.

Krishnaswamy is a retired employee of Rehabilitation Plantations Limited, a joint venture between the Central and Kerala governments established to rehabilitate repatriates from Sri Lanka. His background as a retired worker underscores the potential financial and emotional stresses faced by individuals in similar circumstances, particularly in regions where economic opportunities may be limited. The dual pressures of financial insecurity and mental health challenges can create a perfect storm, leading to situations where individuals may feel trapped and unable to seek help.

Following the discovery, Chinnathamma's body has been transferred to the Government Taluk Hospital in Punalur for a postmortem examination. Authorities confirmed that the inquest has been completed, and the body will be returned to the family after the autopsy. This process is essential not only for legal reasons but also for providing closure to the family, who must now grapple with the loss of their matriarch in such an unsettling manner. The postmortem examination is a critical step in understanding the exact cause of death and ensuring that all necessary legal protocols are followed in the wake of such a tragic event.

The Kulathupuzha police have registered a case under Section 194 (unnatural death) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and have launched a thorough investigation into the incident. This legal framework is designed to address situations where a death may not be straightforward, ensuring that all circumstances surrounding the death are examined comprehensively. The involvement of law enforcement in such cases is crucial not only for legal accountability but also for the broader societal implications, as they highlight the need for improved mental health resources and community support systems.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for community support systems. As societies evolve, the challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues become more pronounced, necessitating a collective effort to ensure that those in need receive the appropriate care and support. Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and addressing it requires a multi-faceted approach that includes education, access to healthcare, and community engagement.

Furthermore, the case raises essential discussions about the responsibilities of family members towards their elderly relatives and the societal structures in place to support families in crisis. The role of families in caring for elderly members is traditionally seen as a fundamental duty; however, the realities of modern life, including economic pressures and changing family dynamics, can complicate this responsibility. It is vital for communities to foster environments where individuals feel empowered to seek help and where resources are available to support families in crisis.

In conclusion, the circumstances surrounding Chinnathamma's death highlight a range of social issues, from the stigmatization of mental health to the responsibilities of family members in caring for their elderly relatives. As investigations continue, the community of Kulathupuzha is left to reflect on this heartbreaking event and the broader implications it holds for families facing similar challenges. This incident not only underscores the need for better mental health awareness and support systems but also serves as a call to action for communities to come together to address the complex issues surrounding aging, mental health, and family dynamics.