Stephan Kayyar

Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod

Kasargod, Aug 9: A 42-year-old senior woman clerk attached to the Revenue Department of the Kasargod Collectorate died while undergoing treatment after allegedly consuming poison.

The deceased, Ashalatha, a resident of Edathode, was found in an unwell condition on August 7 and was initially admitted to a private hospital in Kasargod. As her condition deteriorated, she was shifted to a hospital in Kannur and later transferred to a hospital in Kozhikode for advanced treatment.

She was undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit at the Kozhikode hospital when she died on Sunday afternoon.

Family members and colleagues have alleged that Ashalatha was under severe work pressure and faced mental harassment from senior officials in the department. They alleged that these circumstances may have prompted her to attempt suicide.

Ashalatha had earlier served in the revenue department of the collectorate and was recently transferred to the 'Endosulfan Cell'. It is alleged that the new section was facing a shortage of staff, resulting in excessive workload.

Her family members also claimed that she had been experiencing severe mental distress in recent days.

Kasargod Town police have registered a case in connection with the incident and launched an investigation. The allegations of work pressure and harassment are also being examined as part of the probe.

Suicide is not a solution to any problem. Kindly seek the help of mental health experts if you are under any kind of distress. Toll free helpline number 9152987821.