Abandoned and Ailing: The Story of a Mute and Deaf Woman Found in Kochi

In a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by many in our society, a mute and deaf woman was found abandoned and severely ill near the Thevara Naval Base in Kochi. Her story, marked by neglect and the kindness of strangers, underscores the urgent need for community support and better social safety nets.

A mute and deaf woman abandoned in the streets of Kochi 

On the morning of April 11, 2024, at around 9 AM, employees of the Naval Base discovered the woman lying in front of the facility. She was in a deplorable state, emitting a foul odor, her clothes tattered and dirty. It was immediately apparent that she had been neglected for a long time. Unable to speak or hear, she could not provide any information about her identity or where she came from.

Realizing the urgency of her condition, the Naval Base employees contacted Theruvoram, a local NGO dedicated to helping the homeless and those in distress. Murugan, the Secretary of Theruvoram, and his team rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they tried to communicate with the woman but quickly realized her inability to speak or hear posed significant challenges. 

Understanding the gravity of the situation, Murugan immediately contacted the Thevara Police for assistance. The police responded promptly, arriving with an ambulance to transport the woman to a medical facility. Initially resistant, the woman eventually agreed to be taken to Ernakulam General Hospital with the police's help.

Murugan of Theruvoram NGO and the social workers transporting the woman to Eranakulam General Hospital 

However, upon arrival at the General Hospital, it became evident that there were no wards available to accommodate someone in her condition. Recognizing the need for specialized care, the police coordinated with Theruvoram to transfer her to Kottayam Medical College, where she could receive the necessary treatment and support.

Murugan from Theruvoram NGO and the social worker with the in front of Kottayam Medical College 

Currently, the woman is under medical care at Kottayam Medical College. Observations suggest that she might not have been on the streets for an extended period. There is speculation that she could have been abandoned by her family or lost her way from a nearby home. The fact that she was wearing a specific type of dress indicates that she might have belonged to a particular community or household.

Despite the best efforts of the authorities and the NGO, identifying the woman and locating her relatives has proven to be a significant challenge due to her inability to communicate. This situation highlights a critical gap in the system for assisting individuals with disabilities who find themselves in distress.

Letter of authorisation from Ernakulam Town South Police Station 

The community is now rallying to find any information that could help reunite the woman with her family. Anyone with information about her identity or her relatives is urged to come forward and contact the number below:

Murugan, Theruvoram NGO: 9846051098

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the plight of vulnerable individuals in our society and the importance of community involvement and effective social services. It also emphasizes the need for better mechanisms to support and protect those who cannot advocate for themselves. As Kochi grapples with this heart-wrenching case, it becomes evident that compassion and collective action are vital in addressing such humanitarian issues.