Udupi: Mentally ill woman locked in room for 2 years rescued from inhuman confinement

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, July 8, 2025: In a shocking case of abuse and confinement, a 38-year-old woman suffering from mental illness was rescued from her home in Nalkur, near Udupi, where she had allegedly been kept locked in a room for nearly two years.

The rescue operation was led by Vishu Shetty of Ambalpadi, who acted upon a reliable tip-off, along with staff from Sakhi Centre and the assistance of the 112 emergency police team.

The victim, identified as Baby (38), is married and has two young children. When the team reached the house, they found her pleading for help through a small window, crying out that she could no longer endure the mental and physical torture. She reportedly begged, "Please save me. I want to live. I’m being tortured."

The room was locked with a strong door and padlock, and she was allegedly being fed through a small window, completely cut off from the outside world.

Following her rescue, Baby was immediately shifted to Baliga Hospital for medical care and further evaluation. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances under which she was confined and whether her family members could face legal action for wrongful confinement and neglect.

Mental health activists and officials from Sakhi Centre expressed concern over the inhuman treatment of a mentally ill woman by her own family and have urged for increased awareness and intervention in such cases. Police are expected to question the family members to determine the exact timeline and reasons for her isolation.

The incident has shocked local residents and raised fresh concerns about the treatment of individuals with mental health issues in domestic settings.