A 36-year-old woman and her newborn child lost their lives following a botched delivery attempt utilizing acupuncture treatment in Karakkamandapam, Kerala. The woman, identified as Shemeera Beevi, tragically passed away alongside her baby on Tuesday evening. Her husband, Nayaz, employed as a sound system worker and hailing from Poonthura, was promptly apprehended by Nemom police upon receiving notification of the incident.

Authorities registered a case of unnatural death, revealing that this marked Shemeera’s fourth delivery. Shockingly, throughout her nine-month pregnancy, she had never sought medical consultation, opting instead for the assistance of an acupuncturist who made house calls. Tragically, complications arose during the delivery process, prompting a belated transfer to a private hospital where both mother and child were pronounced dead upon arrival.

As news of the tragedy spread, local Councillor Deepika, along with ASHA workers and neighbors, condemned Nayaz, alleging his obstruction of medical intervention for his wife. Deepika disclosed that Nayaz had barred ASHA workers from entering their residence or engaging with Shemeera. Despite their efforts, they managed to speak with Shemeera, uncovering the grim reality of her situation – all previous deliveries had been via C-section, the latest merely a year ago. Despite the impossibility of a natural birth, Nayaz obstinately pursued this option, undermining the established medical system and purportedly turning to YouTube tutorials for guidance.

Adding to the chorus of condemnation, a concerned elderly neighbor accused Nayaz of callously disregarding Shemeera’s welfare, denying her essential treatment, and isolating her from the community’s support.

Currently, police interrogation of Nayaz is underway, with further action pending the accumulation of details.