Three children left orphaned in Idukki after mother brutally murdered

Idukki (Kerala): Three children in Mathaipara are struggling to cope after their mother, Rajani, was brutally murdered and their father, Ratheesh (Subin), went missing. The children—Revathi, Rathin, and Rajeev—are now faced with the daunting challenge of continuing their education and building a future without parental care.

Revathi, a graduation student, Rathin, a Plus Two student, and Rajeev, a Class 10 student, suddenly became orphans in a single day. With only Rajani’s two sisters and mother stepping in to care for them, the children’s immediate future remains uncertain.

The family had lived in a one-room thatched shed protected by a worn tarpaulin. Though they were granted a LIFE housing scheme home, Subin had not completed the necessary procedures to move in. Attempts by school authorities to secure housing for the children under the Snehasadanam scheme were also stalled due to Subin’s absence.

The house where the murder occurred is now unsafe. While Subin’s brother owns a small house nearby, he resides in Kumily. Rajani’s sisters are married and lack the financial stability to support the children, leaving them without a secure home.

Community in shock over brutal murder

Rajani’s relatives and locals in Mathaippara expressed disbelief over the murder. Although her husband had a history of domestic disputes, no one anticipated it would escalate to murder. Reports indicate that Subin had previously assaulted Rajani both at home and in public.

Following past arguments, Rajani often sought refuge at her ancestral home in Cheenthalar, returning after several days. Police, neighbours, and public representatives had intervened previously. Subin also attempted suicide twice but was rescued. Based on circumstantial evidence, authorities have concluded Subin is responsible for the murder, though the investigation is ongoing.

Locals were devastated by the news that broke on Tuesday at 4 pm. Despite police efforts to restrict access, people continued to gather late into the night at the Malekavu home. The crowd remained until Rajani’s body was taken for postmortem at 12 noon on Wednesday.

The funeral was held at Rajani’s ancestral home in Cheenthalar, drawing large crowds since Wednesday morning. By 4 p.m., the home and surrounding area were packed, with many unable to find space to stand. Community members were visibly shaken by the grief of Rajani’s children and elderly mother. Even after the funeral, the ancestral home remained a centre of mourning.