Sindhudurg, August 7: In a startling development, a woman found chained to a tree in a dense forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district has reportedly admitted to shackling herself. Discovered on July 27 by a cow herder, she was found emaciated and in a dire state after her cries for help were heard. Initially, she had claimed that her husband had tied her to the tree with an iron chain and left her to die, which led to significant concern and a police investigation. However, recent reports reveal that she had shackled herself due to severe distress over an expired visa and financial troubles.

The 50-year-old American woman, identified as Lalita Kayi Kumar S, a native of Tamil Nadu and US citizen, was found chained to a tree in the dense forests of Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra, on July 27. Initially, Kayi claimed that her husband had abandoned her there to die, reporting severe malnutrition and an inability to speak. The shocking discovery by a cow herder led to a major rescue operation, with local police and villagers cutting the chains and taking her to the hospital. American Woman Found Chained to Tree in Sindhudurg Forest, Husband Suspected of Crime; Disturbing Pics Surface.

Kayi’s initial statements, including claims of extreme physical deprivation, were closely investigated, as reported by the BBC. After being admitted to a psychiatric facility, Kayi’s narrative took a dramatic turn. According to BBC reports, she later admitted that she had chained herself to the tree. Faced with an expired visa and dwindling finances, Kayi confessed to buying locks and chains and restraining herself in a fit of distress. Her admission came after days of psychiatric treatment, during which her condition and credibility were evaluated. Andhra Pradesh: Woman Injured After Tree Branch Falls on Her During Temple Visit at Tirumala Hill; Disturbing Video Surfaces.

Kayi explained that her initial claims were influenced by severe psychological turmoil and hallucinations. Further investigation by the police, as reported by the BBC, confirmed that Kayi was unmarried and had been experiencing severe psychological distress. Dr Sanghamitra Phule, the superintendent of the psychiatric hospital where Kayi is receiving care, confirmed that her condition is improving. She is now in touch with her family in the US and is undergoing treatment to address both her physical and psychological needs.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 07, 2024 09:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).