In a heart-wrenching incident in Secunderabad, Telangana, two sisters, aged 25 and 22, spent four days in their home with their deceased mother, Sri Lalitha, 45, who passed away on January 27, 2025. Overwhelmed by depression and lacking the financial means for her funeral, the young women remained isolated, keeping their mother’s body inside their residence.
The situation came to light on January 31 when neighbors detected a foul odor emanating from the house and alerted the authorities. Upon arrival, the police discovered the decomposed body and noted that the sisters appeared to be in a state of mental distress. Both were subsequently taken to a hospital for evaluation, and their mother’s body was sent to Gandhi Hospital for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
According to the police, the sisters had been living alone with their mother after their father abandoned the family several years ago. They had no close relatives to turn to for support. The young women had completed their education up to the intermediate and degree levels and were employed as salesgirls. The sudden demise of their mother left them in a state of shock and depression, leading them to remain with her body due to a lack of resources and support.
This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of mental health awareness and the need for accessible support systems. Depression can have profound effects on individuals, leading to impaired decision-making and social withdrawal. In this case, the sisters’ mental state, compounded by financial constraints and social isolation, resulted in their inability to seek help or perform the last rites for their mother.
Community awareness and intervention play vital roles in preventing such tragedies. Neighbors and local communities should remain vigilant and offer support to individuals showing signs of distress. Establishing accessible mental health resources and support networks is essential to assist those in need, ensuring timely intervention and assistance.
The police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Sri Lalitha’s death. Meanwhile, the sisters are receiving counseling and support to help them cope with their loss and mental health challenges.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of mental health issues and the pressing need for comprehensive support systems to aid individuals during times of crisis.
