Kuwait: Woman Employed As Housemaid Dies, Alleged Torture by Employer

Kalpetta: Six months ago, Ajitha, a 50-year-old woman from Wayanad, embarked on a journey to Kuwait with hopes of securing a brighter future for her family. Employed as a housemaid, Ajitha aimed to contribute to the construction of a new home for her husband and ensure better opportunities for their children. Little did she know, this journey would end in a devastating tragedy.

The Shocking News

On May 17, Ajitha's daughter Midhusha received a heart-wrenching call from an agency that specialises in repatriating bodies to India. The agency informed her that Ajitha's body had been discovered hanging from the roof of her employer's house in Kuwait. The news left the family shattered and in a state of profound confusion and grief.

Days after receiving the tragic news, Ajitha's husband Vijayan, who works as an autorickshaw driver in Kakkavayal, received voice messages from one of Ajitha's friends in Wayanad. These messages contained harrowing details of the torture Ajitha reportedly endured at the hands of her employer. The revelations were both shocking and heartbreaking.

A Family's Quest for Justice

Vijayan has since been tirelessly seeking answers and justice for his late wife. He has been running from pillar to post, trying to uncover the truth behind Ajitha's death and retrieve her personal belongings, which remain in the possession of the family in Kuwait. The struggle to get clear answers and bring back Ajitha's belongings has been a challenging and emotionally draining process for Vijayan and his family.

Allegations of Abuse

The voice messages sent by Ajitha's friend paint a grim picture of her life in Kuwait. Ajitha had reportedly confided in her friend about the severe mistreatment and abuse she faced from her employer. These allegations have intensified the family's quest for justice, as they believe that Ajitha's death was not a simple case of suicide but rather a result of the torture she endured.

Seeking Support and Justice

Vijayan and his family are now seeking support from authorities and human rights organizations to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ajitha's death. They are determined to ensure that those responsible for her suffering are held accountable. The family's plight highlights the broader issue of the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers, particularly domestic workers in foreign countries, and the need for stronger protections and support systems.

Ajitha's tragic story is a stark reminder of the risks many migrant workers face when they leave their home countries in search of better opportunities. It highlights the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of these workers and ensuring they have access to justice when wronged. As her family navigates this difficult journey, their resilience and determination shine through, reminding us all of the importance of standing up against injustice and advocating for the rights of those who cannot speak for themselves.

Personal views expressed by the author are their own