The tragic death of animal rescuer Sunitha Smitha has sparked widespread outrage among the public. Among the many who spoke out against the brutal assault and murder is actor Parvathy Thiruvothu. Sunitha, a 47-year-old native of Vadanappally, Thrissur, passed away on Tuesday (May 5) at Jubilee Mission Hospital after suffering catastrophic injuries.

The incident

Sunitha had traveled to Bengaluru to work at a stray dog shelter. According to reports, the fatal assault occurred on Sunday in Sulibele. It is alleged that Sunitha resisted sexual advances from her employer and expressed her desire to return to Kerala. In response, the accused—identified as Deepak Krishnan—reportedly launched a violent attack, repeatedly striking her head against a wall and a cabinet before stamping on her chest. He also allegedly used a knife to threaten two other women who attempted to rescue her.
Parvathy’s outcry

Visibly shaken, Parvathy Thiruvothu took to social media to express her anguish. In a series of emotional posts, she emphasized that Sunitha’s death was a cold-blooded murder triggered by her refusal to be assaulted.
"Sunitha was murdered. Sunitha didn't just die. She was murdered. I have not been able to stop crying furiously since I got to know that one of the most loving, kind women I have met was murdered while she resisted attempts of sexual assault by her murderer. Who was her employer. Sharing the news link on the next slide. Go get triggered and angry please."

Parvathy further detailed the sacrifices Sunitha made for her family and her passion for animal rescue:

"Sunitha is survived by her loving husband and her 4-year-old son and 167 dogs that she rescued and took care of. During her rescues she had been attacked several times. She survived a knife attack, a third degree burn and what not. She took this job because her murderer offered her a salary at his dog shelter. She took the job because it would help her take care of her family and the dogs she saved. Her kind heart led her to her murder? I cannot process this."

In a video message, the actor questioned the safety of women and the systemic failure to protect them: "This man killed her because he couldn't assault her. And this is not his first time, and it won't be his last time. What a safe country for our girls. Why do we need feminism though?"


(With inputs from Agencies)