Bantwal: A 35-year-old mentally depressed unmarried woman, suspected to be “kept in isolation by force” was freed to put an end to the burning issue after media brought the case into limelight in Benkya of Sajipamuda village.
Mallika (35), daughter of Venkappa Poojary and Sumathi couple was taken by one of her married sisters, who assured of personal care and treatment later at Prajna Counselling Centre.
Mallika went into depression after her father and brother passed away, few years ago. Having three married sisters, Mallika remained at home but her presence was not felt by the “world around her.” After branding her as mentally challenged, she was forcibly kept in isolation, akin to house arrest by family members, it is alleged.
Some youth had complained to the police, women and child welfare department and media over the incident, accusing foul play by her family members. They had urged the concerned to initiate action to rescue the loner in isolation. Only after the news broke out in media, one of the sister’s rushed to her aid, say few neighbours.
However, family members refuted those claims, giving a clean chit to the mother, one of the prime suspects for deterioration in Mallika’s mental and physical condition.
