Student was counselled but didn’t get psychologist help

The BPharma student, who allegedly died by suicide on Wednesday had been suffering from mental health issues, said Sakhi Centre administrator Rama Devi and support agency head P. Padmavathi at the Kasturba Gandhi National Memorial Trust, the NGO running the Sakhi Centre in Medchal Malkajgiri.

Counselling for the victim started after her alleged kidnap case came to light and her statement was recorded. Authorities her telling them that she had not been feeling well for a long time and that she felt a constant need for affection and attention from her near and dear ones. She had also told them during her counselling session that she feared losing people close to her.

Following this, Rama Devi and NGO representatives suggested that the victim’s family seek professional psychological help for the student. They also put them in contact with a psychologist near the centre. They further suggested that the girl continue her stay at the centre itself.

Her parents, fearing undue focus and scrutiny by public in the case, insisted on taking her home for the time being and said they would seek help later.

Sakhi One Stop Centres (OSCs) exist in all districts of the state to support women affected by violence and trauma in private or public spaces, within the family, community or at the workplace.