Two decades without sunlight: Bastar orphan locked up to ‘shield from stalker’

In a case that has shocked officials and social workers in Chhattisgarh, a woman in her twenties has been rescued from a room where she was allegedly locked by her foster family for nearly two decades, purportedly to shield her from a suspected molester.

The incident, emerging from the Bastar region, is now under investigation as a potential case of criminal negligence, unlawful detention and a severe violation of human rights, according to local authorities.

The woman, who is orphaned, was reportedly confined from the age of eight. Officials from the social welfare department, acting on information, reached the foster family’s home to liberate her from what had effectively been her prison for most of her life.

As reported by TOI, sources within the department cited the family’s justification: an overwhelming fear that a young man in the neighbourhood, described as a habitual offender, would sexually assault her if she was seen outside.

This claimed motive of “protection” resulted in a childhood and adolescence spent entirely indoors, devoid of sunlight, open air or any form of normal social interaction.

The consequences of such prolonged isolation are starkly evident. Sister Clarelit of the Gharaunda Ashram in Korchuli, where the woman is now receiving care, described her condition. She barely responds to her name, has severely impaired eyesight and appears deeply traumatised by her ordeal.

Medical assessments suggest her chances of regaining full eyesight are slim. However, caregivers report faint signs of progress. “The good news is she is slowly learning to respond and walk with support,” Sister Clarelit was cited as saying.

Bastar Collector Harish S reportedly confirmed the ongoing probe, stating that officials were questioning the woman's family members and investigating the circumstances of the prolonged confinement.

He emphasised the situation was being treated with the utmost seriousness and noted the investigation would cover potential criminal negligence and human rights violations, with action to follow once the official report was filed.