In a tragic incident highlighting profound mental distress, two sisters from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, allegedly died by suicide after consuming phenyl at their residence. The police reported on Friday that the women, who were battling depression, had become deeply distressed over their pet dog's prolonged illness.
A Bond with Their Pet and Deepening Distress
The sisters, identified as Radha Singh (26) and Jiya Singh (22), lived in the Doda Kheda-Jalalpur area of Lucknow. Investigators revealed that the siblings had recently adopted a pet dog and had grown intensely attached to it. They cared for the animal together, often mirroring each other's actions, according to reports.
However, the dog had been unwell for nearly a month. This situation left both women "increasingly distressed and withdrawn." Family members informed the police that the sisters appeared more depressed since the pet fell sick, though it is not yet clear if issues related to its treatment directly triggered the extreme step.
Struggles with Mental and Physical Health
A preliminary inquiry based on family statements indicated that both sisters were suffering from depression. Their mental health challenges were compounded by other factors. One of the sisters was suffering from tuberculosis, which had worsened her mental state. The other had been battling depression since 2014.
Police noted that the sisters neither used mobile phones nor were active on social media, and they largely stayed indoors. One of them was also known to have frequent anger outbursts and would sometimes damage household items.
The family, facing multiple hardships, includes their parents, Gulab Devi and Kailash Singh, who are also reportedly unwell. A brother, Veer Singh, works as a small-time contractor.
How the Tragedy Unfolded and Investigation
The incident came to light when information was received from a local private hospital around 2.30 pm on Wednesday that two sisters had been admitted after allegedly consuming phenyl. No one witnessed the act, and there is no audio or video evidence related to the incident.
Their mother had discovered their condition and alerted neighbours and relatives. Radha Singh died during treatment, while Jiya Singh was referred to King George's Medical University in central Lucknow, where she also succumbed.
Para Station House Officer Suresh Singh stated, "The viscera samples of both women have been preserved and sent to a forensic laboratory to confirm the cause of death and detect any poisonous substances." He added that further action would be taken after the forensic reports. The cremation of the bodies was conducted on Thursday.
This heartbreaking case underscores the severe impact of untreated depression and the deep emotional bonds people share with their pets, which can sometimes exacerbate mental health crises during times of stress.
