Published Sep 06, 2026 | 4:10 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 06, 2026 | 4:24 PM
The deceased has been identified as V. Devika, daughter of Prakashan and Beena of Thekkanveettil, Nidiyodi.
Synopsis: A 22-year-old woman from Kannur, V. Devika, died after allegedly jumping in front of a bullet train in Japan. After considering the practical difficulties and time involved in repatriating her remains, Devika’s family decided to have her laid to rest in Japan.
A 22-year-old woman hailing from Iritty in Kannur allegedly died by suicide in Japan’s Kamigahara by jumping in front of a bullet train.
The deceased has been identified as V. Devika, daughter of Prakashan and Beena of Thekkanveettil, Nidiyodi. Devika had been working in Japan for the past six months, according to her family.
The incident happened on September 2, at around 10.20 pm IST.
Devika’s family had sought help from Kerala Chief Minister VD. Satheesan to trace her after they were unable to contact her. They were informed of her death shortly.
Japanese authorities confirmed Devika’s identity using an identity card recovered at the scene. Authorities have claimed that Devika died by suicide.
Devika had moved to Japan after completing a lab technician course and was working as a nursing assistant with Igalo Chovan Social Welfare Corporation. She had taken up the job around six months ago on a three-year employment contract.
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Following the death, efforts were made to coordinate with authorities for the repatriation of Devika’s remains. CM V.D Satheesan, MPs K.C Venugopal and K. Sudhakaran and others were involved in coordinating the efforts, while the family also sought assistance from the Indian Embassy.
However, after considering the practical difficulties and the time involved in bringing the remains back, the family has now reached a decision not to repatriate them to Kerala.
Speaking to South First, Devika’s neighbour and panchayat representative Shamsudheen Padiyoor said the family has decided not to bring her remains back to Kerala, citing the difficulties involved in the repatriation process and the condition of the body.
“Her remains won’t be brought to Kerala as the procedure is hectic and there are no remains at all, as she was hit by a bullet train. It will also take more than three weeks,” he said.
Relatives, expatriate organisations and elected representatives continue to coordinate with the authorities on the necessary procedures in Japan.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
