An elderly couple, who had reportedly struggled to come to terms with the death of their only son, were found dead inside their home in Kerala’s Ernakulam district on Wednesday in what police believe was a suicide pact.
according to Malayalam Manorama.
Police said there were no signs of forced entry or any evidence of third-party involvement. Although the two were found with their hands tied behind their backs, investigators said preliminary findings indicate the couple may have tied each other’s hands before taking the extreme step.
“One of the knots was obviously loose, suggesting that they had tied each other before the incident,” said a police officer. Malayalam Manorama. “At this stage, our investigation points to suicide. There are no suspicious circumstances, although a post-mortem examination will provide greater clarity.”
A case of unnatural death has been registered under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the police have launched an investigation.
Years of sorrow
According to investigators, the couple had been living with deep emotional trauma since the death of their only son, Sijoy, who died of a heart attack several years ago at the age of 33.
Police said the tragedy had deeply affected Sanjeevan and Sabitha, who reportedly became increasingly withdrawn after their son’s death.
Sanjeevan had previously worked abroad before returning to Kerala, where he ran a marine workshop in Manjakkad. Sabitha was a retired employee of the Kerala High Court, Malayalam Manorama reported.
Investigators also found that the couple allegedly attempted suicide about a year ago by slitting their wrists. They survived after prolonged medical treatment and were later closely monitored by family members.
According to the police, Sanjeevan’s brother had been checking on the couple daily through regular phone calls after the earlier incident.
DISCLOSURE
The latest tragedy came to light after Sanjeevan reportedly called his brother on Tuesday and asked him to visit their home around 9 am the next morning.
When repeated calls Wednesday morning went unanswered, the brother became concerned and contacted a neighbor, asking them to check on the couple.
The neighbor found the front door open and discovered the bodies inside before immediately calling the police.
Police completed their investigation at the residence before transferring the bodies for post-mortem examination. Investigators said they are awaiting autopsy findings but, based on the evidence collected so far, have found no indication of foul play.
