“We have no words to console her. We often find her weeping and there is nothing we can do. What can we do? After all, she has witnessed the brutal murder of her husband with whom she had been in love with. This is brutal” – One can see the grief in the eyes of the policeman posted for the security of S. Kousalya.

Despite the heavy loss she has suffered and the sense of disconnect with everyone in the outer world, the strong will power of Kousalya, wife of the slain Dalit youth V. Shankar, has helped her recover from the grievous injuries that she sustained in the brutal assault that claimed the life of her husband.

It took the doctors 36 stitches to cover the wound on her forehead. Though her physical wounds were less, her mental wounds are the severest. She is under counselling at the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH).

According to officials from the CMCH, her condition is being closely monitored by Dr. A. Shanmugaiah, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, and he is soon to plan a regular detailed treatment modality to help her recover mentally.

“She is finding safety in the ward and is satisfied with the treatment provided. She has started smiling at the attenders and is now confident of a new future,” said an official.

The official also added that she showed interest in being taken care of by three members from the family of Shankar. They had planned to visit her on Wednesday, however could not make it because of security issues.

“We are not allowing anyone to meet her now because of security concerns and also because she is disturbed. But family members will be allowed inside,” he informed.

While more than 10 police personnel are guarding the Ward in which she is now, an Inspector and a Sub-Inspector are also posted on shift basis.

The doctors further revealed that she would be moved to a General Ward or be discharged based on orders from higher officials after ensuring her safety and security. She is likely to be moved to Shankar’s house as they have accepted to look after her.