In a tragic incident that has shocked both the Indian expatriate community in the UAE and families back home in Kerala, an Indian woman was found dead in her Sharjah apartment on July 19, 2025. The woman, who had just turned 30 the day before, was set to begin a new job at a local mall. Her death, initially ruled a suicide, has since raised serious questions about domestic violence and justice for women abroad.
Discovery of the Body
Athulya Sekhar, a 30-year-old woman from Chavara in Kerala, had been living in Sharjah for two years. On July 19, her lifeless body was discovered in her apartment in the Rolla area. Authorities in Sharjah initially concluded that her death was a suicide by hanging. However, her family members strongly disputed this finding, citing a history of domestic abuse and harassment by her husband.
Family’s Allegations of Domestic Abuse
Athulya’s family has come forward with disturbing allegations against her husband, Satheesh Sankar. They claim that she had been subjected to physical and mental abuse over the years, including incidents of strangulation, physical assault, and threats. According to her father, Rajasekharan Pillai, Athulya had confided in them about the abuse she endured at the hands of her husband.
The family also released video footage showing Satheesh allegedly assaulting Athulya. These videos have been submitted to the police as evidence, prompting further investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
Following the release of the video evidence, the Kerala Police registered a murder case against Satheesh Sankar. An eight-member special investigation team was formed to probe the matter. The police have issued a lookout notice for Satheesh, who had returned to Kerala after the incident. He was briefly detained but later released on anticipatory bail.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining all available evidence, including the video footage and testimonies from family members and witnesses. The case has drawn attention to the issue of domestic violence among Indian expatriates in the Gulf region.
Repatriation and Funeral
Athulya’s body was repatriated to Kerala on July 29, 2025. A post-mortem examination was conducted at the Parippally Medical College, which revealed 46 injuries on her body, including signs of strangulation. The findings have further fueled suspicions of foul play.
Her funeral was held in her hometown of Chavara, with her 10-year-old daughter performing the final rites. The young girl is now under the care of Athulya’s parents, who are determined to seek justice for their daughter.
Broader Implications
This tragic incident has highlighted the challenges faced by Indian expatriate women in the Gulf countries. Many women endure domestic abuse in silence, often due to fear of retribution, lack of support, or unfamiliarity with legal avenues. The case of Athulya Sekhar underscores the urgent need for stronger protective measures and support systems for expatriate women in foreign countries.
It also calls for greater awareness and education about domestic violence, both within the expatriate community and among the general public. Advocacy groups and human rights organizations have called for more stringent laws and better enforcement to protect women from abuse.
Conclusion
The death of Athulya Sekhar is a heartbreaking reminder of the hidden struggles faced by many women living abroad. While the investigation continues, her family’s courage in speaking out serves as a beacon for others who may be suffering in silence. It is hoped that this case will lead to greater accountability and reforms that ensure the safety and dignity of all women, regardless of their nationality or location.
The Challenges Faced by Indian Women Expatriates in the UAE
The tragic death of the 30-year-old Indian expatriate in Sharjah has once again drawn attention to the difficulties faced by women living far from home. Many Indian women who move to the UAE for work or family reasons encounter cultural, social, and legal challenges. While the country provides employment opportunities, it also presents hurdles in terms of legal protections, access to justice, and awareness about rights, particularly for domestic workers and spouses living under sponsorship laws.
Expatriate women often rely heavily on their employers or family members for support. When conflicts arise in personal relationships, especially within marriages, it can be difficult for them to seek help. Fear of legal complications, social stigma, and potential deportation often prevents victims from reporting abuse. Athulya’s case underscores the critical need for more accessible support services for expatriate women, including helplines, counseling, and legal aid that can assist them in navigating such difficult situations.
Management Regulations and Employer Responsibility
Beyond domestic relationships, workplace management regulations in the UAE also play a role in safeguarding expatriates. Companies are increasingly expected to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees, particularly when recruiting international staff. Policies that protect workers from harassment, provide clear channels for grievances, and ensure mental health support are becoming essential. In Athulya’s situation, she was set to join a new job on the day she passed away, highlighting the stress and challenges many expatriates face when balancing professional responsibilities with personal hardships.
Raising Awareness and Preventive Measures
Experts emphasize that raising awareness about domestic abuse, mental health, and women’s legal rights is crucial in expatriate communities. Workshops, seminars, and campaigns can educate both men and women about respectful relationships, legal protections, and available resources. Religious, community, and cultural organizations can also provide support networks to reduce isolation and provide timely intervention when abuse is suspected.
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