Kerala Toddler’s Death: Malnutrition Revealed

October 20, 2026

Health

Two-year-old Rahul from Alappuzha died due to severe malnutrition and anaemia, according to postmortem findings.

Rahul weighed  just 7 Kg

October 20, 2026

Health

Rahul weighed around 7 kg, far below the approximately 12 kg expected for a child of his age.

Father initially claimed he choked on milk

October 20, 2026

Health

Rahul’s father reportedly told police that the child had choked on milk. However, the postmortem revealed severe malnutrition and anaemia, with no external injuries.

Child died while his mother was in hospital

October 20, 2026

Health

Rahul died on 17 October, hours after his mother was admitted to Vandanam Medical College Hospital to deliver her seventh child. His father reportedly took him to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Authorities had intervened previously

October 20, 2026

Health

Child protection officials had reportedly been trying to ensure the children's safety since 2022. The Child Welfare Committee had previously taken four children into care for around 18 months before returning them to their parents.

Family’s living conditions raised concerns

October 20, 2026

Health

The family had reportedly lived in a makeshift shelter after their house was damaged by rain. Officials and local representatives had also attempted to arrange shelter and support, but the family later returned to their ancestral home.

Rahul’s four sisters taken into care

October 20, 2026

Health

Following Rahul’s death, his four surviving sisters were taken into the Child Welfare Committee’s care and moved to a safe facility. Authorities launched investigations into the death and possible neglect, while the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights initiated proceedings.

Ward member alleges school-provided rice was sold

October 20, 2026

Health

A local ward member, Vineeth, alleged that Rahul’s father sold 20 kg of rice provided for the children through their school to a nearby hotel for ₹500 in September. This is a reported allegation and has not been established as a finding of the investigation.