Kochi, 22 July (H.S.):An elderly couple were found dead inside their residence at Njarakkal in Vypin on Wednesday morning in what police believe to be a case of suicide, bringing to light the devastating impact of prolonged emotional trauma following the loss of their only son.

The deceased have been identified as Kalathiparambil Sajeevan (72) and his wife Sabitha (63), residents of the fourth ward of Njarakkal Panchayat. According to police, both were found hanging in the front room of their house when neighbours entered the residence after receiving a request from the couple's relatives.

Investigators said the front door of the house had been left open. Both victims were found with their hands tied behind their backs. However, police have ruled out foul play, stating that preliminary evidence indicates the couple had tied each other's hands before taking the extreme step. One of the knots was found to be loose, reinforcing the initial conclusion that no third party was involved.

Police have registered an unnatural death case under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The bodies will be shifted for postmortem examination after inquest proceedings, and officials said further clarity is expected once the forensic examination is completed.

According to investigators, Sajeevan had worked abroad for several years before returning to Kerala, where he later ran a marine workshop at Manjakkad. Sabitha was a retired employee of the Kerala High Court.

Police said the couple had been struggling with severe emotional distress since their only son, Sijoy, died of a heart attack a few years ago at the age of 33. About a year ago, they had allegedly attempted suicide by slitting their wrists but survived after receiving medical treatment.

The incident came to light after Sajeevan asked his brother on Tuesday to visit the house the following morning. When repeated phone calls went unanswered on Wednesday, the brother alerted a neighbour, who entered the house and discovered the couple before informing the police.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman