Varkala train attack survivor returns home after months of treatment

Thiruvananthapuram/Kochi: Palode-native Sreekutty, who suffered critical injuries in the train attack in Varkala, returned home after months of intensive treatment.The 20-year-old was discharged from Amrita Hospital in Kochi, where she had been undergoing advanced neurorehabilitation since Dec 25 last year, following initial treatment at Thiruvananthapuram medical college.
At the time of admission to Amrita Hospital, Sreekutty was unconscious and struggling to breathe due to a severe brain injury. She had also sustained a left shoulder injury. Doctors performed a tracheostomy to assist her breathing and inserted a feeding tube as part of life-support care.Under the supervision of Dr Ravi Sankaran, head of the physical medicine and rehabilitation department, and Dr Anand Raja, she underwent a structured neurorehabilitation programme that included oxygen support, breathing exercises, swallow therapy, cognitive stimulation and gradual physical rehabilitation.Her recovery involved coordinated care from multiple departments, including ENT, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, neurology, endocrinology and gastroenterology. Doctors said she has now regained the ability to eat, walk and speak independently.Sreekutty's mother Priya remained by her side throughout the treatment period. Expressing relief at her daughter's recovery, she said, "When my daughter was admitted, I told the doctors that I needed my child back. She has made significant progress. I am grateful to the doctors, nurses and hospital authorities. She will need to return for further treatment, including surgery on her shoulder."Mata Amritanandamayi Math extended support and undertook the entire cost of treatment. Sreekutty was shifted to Amrita Hospital after chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan's direct intervention.The incident occurred in Nov 2025 when Suresh Kumar (50), of Panachamoodu, allegedly kicked Sreekutty off a moving train near Varkala after she refused to move away from the doorway on his request. Investigations found that the attack took place shortly after Sreekutty stepped out of the train toilet. The accused allegedly pushed her from behind without provocation and also attempted to assault a co-passenger, Archana, who escaped unhurt.Sreekutty had fallen onto the railway track and sustained severe head and spinal injuries.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Holi wishes, messages and quotes !