Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 26: In a disturbing incident that has shocked the city, a 60-year-old woman suffering from skin cancer and mental health issues was found abandoned amidst a garbage pile in Mumbai’s Aarey Colony. The case has taken a grim turn as the woman’s grandson has confessed to the act after being confronted with CCTV evidence.

Yashoda Gaikwad, the victim, was spotted last week lying helplessly among heaps of rotting waste. Passers-by who noticed her condition shared pictures on social media, which soon went viral and reached the authorities. Acting swiftly, Mumbai Police traced her family to Kandivali.

Initially, the family claimed Yashoda had left home on her own, citing past incidents of similar behaviour. However, their version of events quickly unravelled after the police obtained CCTV footage from a local hospital. The video clearly showed Yashoda being brought in by her grandson, Sagar Shewale, and his uncle, Babasaheb Gaikwad. After being denied admission, the duo were seen taking her out of the hospital premises.

Upon further interrogation, Sagar broke down and confessed that he and his uncle abandoned Yashoda in Aarey Colony in the early hours of the morning with the help of an auto-rickshaw driver. The cruel act reportedly came after their failed attempt to get her admitted to the hospital.

Yashoda was found in Unit 32 of Aarey and rushed to Cooper Hospital in Vile Parle, where she is currently receiving treatment.

A police official informed Daijiworld, “Yashoda Gaikwad told us that she was living with her grandson in Malad. She said he was the one who left her in Aarey. However, the addresses she initially provided were not useful as the homes were found locked.”

Mumbai Police have not arrested Sagar Shewale and Babasaheb Gaikwad yet, but have registered a case under Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for negligence and under Section 24 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, which criminalises the abandonment of senior citizens.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and reignited debate over the treatment and care of elderly citizens, particularly those facing health and mental challenges. Activists have called for stricter enforcement of elder protection laws and more awareness among families about their responsibilities.

Mumbai’s social services department has reportedly reached out to ensure Yashoda receives long-term support once her condition stabilises.