Child, 13, dies after 68-day fast

HYDERABAD: A 13-year-old schoolgirl in Hyderabad died last week after fasting for 68 days as per Jain rituals during the holy period of ‘Chaumasa’.

The family had said Aradhana Samdhariya was admitted to hospital two days after completing her fast, where she died of cardiac arrest. But a hospital certificate claims the girl was brought in dead.

At least 600 people attended Aradhana’s funeral procession, called a ‘ shobha yatra’ – a mark of celebration.

Aradhana’s family run a jewellery business and a shop. Questions are being raised why they allowed her to give up school and go on a fast.

‘’It has been a practice for people to undertake severe penance when they give up even food and water,” said Lata Jain, a member of the community.

“They are glorified, lauded and honoured at community meetings by the religious elders. They are also showered with gifts. But in this case it was a minor and that is my objection. This is suicide, if not murder.’’

Sources close to the family said Aradhana had earlier undertaken a similar fast for 41 days and survived.

“We did not hide anything,” Aradhana’s grandfather, Manekchand Samdhariya, said. “Everyone knew Aradhana was fasting. They came and took selfies with her. Now some people are pointing fingers at us for allowing her to fast for 68 days.”

Child rights activists say a police case must be registered and the child rights commission must take action.