'Interfaith marriage against family's wishes, final WhatsApp message to friend'; More details on Emilda's death

THRISSUR: More details emerged about the death of a newlywed woman in Chalakudy. 22-year-old Emilda, a native of Pariyaram, Kannur, attempted suicide at her husband's residence and later died while undergoing treatment. She was found in a critical condition on the 6th of this month at the residence of her husband, Afsal, who is a native of Potta.

Although Emilda was immediately admitted to a private hospital in Karukutty, she passed away on Sunday.

Meanwhile, police registered a case against Afsal in the incident. The FIR was filed on charges of abetment of suicide and domestic violence. Emilda and Afsal married two years ago, and they have a one-year-old child.

Emilda was her parents' only daughter and academically bright. It was during her student days that she met Afsal and eventually fell in love with him. Coming from a financially well-off family, Emilda's relatives were unwilling to accept her relationship with Afsal, who belonged to a different religion. With no options to pursue her love, Emilda eloped with Afsal, leaving behind her family. The couple soon had a child, and Emilda remained at her husband’s house.

However, things started going south after Afsal made it a habit to pressure Emilda to help him financially. Emilda had even taken up manual labour—including construction work—to make ends meet. Failure to meet Afsal’s demand would end up in beatings and further torture. It is also alleged that Emilda wished to return to her parental residence, but the family objected.

Emilda attempted suicide after sending a WhatsApp text to her friend. It is also reported that Emilda’s family have not yet filed a police complaint regarding the death.