21-year-old dies by suicide in Kerala; note alleges forced conversion, abuse by male friend

Kochi: Police have arrested a man in connection with the suspected suicide of a 21-year-old woman from Kothamangalam on Saturday afternoon.

The deceased has been identified as Sona Eldhose, a Teacher Training Course (TTC) student. Following the incident, police took her male friend, Ramees, into custody for questioning.

Ramees, a temporary employee at Nedumbassery airport, is currently under investigation in connection with the case, police said.

Suicide note reveals allegations of coercion

A suicide note found at Sona’s residence contains serious allegations. In the note, Sona accuses Ramees and his family of coercing her to convert to her religion in order to proceed with marriage. The note states she was locked indoors and subjected to abuse.

While the family was thus forcing her, Ramees allegedly told Sona that they could proceed with a registered marriage. But instead, they locked her inside the house and harassed her. The suicide note stated that she could not live with such deceit.

Sona is survived by her mother, Bindu Eldhose, and her brother Basil. Her father passed away three months ago.

Family demands justice

Speaking to Mathrubhumi News, a relative, Eldhose Peter, confirmed they were aware of Sona’s relationship with Ramees.

“They insisted she must convert. Initially, she agreed. Later, she came to know about some cases involving him. Still, she agreed to the marriage,” he said.

“She left home saying she was visiting a friend. But Ramees took her to Aluva, to a house where his friends and relatives forced her to convert. She was abused, and the registered marriage did not take place. She had left home claiming that she was going to visit a friend. Ramees had picked up from there, promising to conduct a registered marriage. She had confided in a friend about the mistreatment. The police have registered a case. Everything is written in her note. We want justice. The accused must not be allowed to walk free,” Eldhose Peter added.

(Attention: Suicide is not a solution to any problem. Those struggling with mental health issues should seek help from professionals. The 'Disha' helpline provides free counselling and support servces. Dial toll-free helpline number: 1056 or 0471-2552056)