Minister Visits Police Volunteer Soman at TMM Hospital, Extends Support
Every community has individuals who quietly shoulder responsibilities that few are willing to undertake. For years, Soman, a volunteer who assisted Kerala Police in recovering unidentified and highly decomposed bodies, carried out this difficult work without seeking recognition. Today, he is undergoing treatment at Tiruvalla Medical Mission (TMM) Hospital after developing a serious infection believed to have been contracted during one such recovery operation.
A Familiar Face During Difficult Police Operations
According to local reports, Soman has worked alongside police personnel for several years, assisting in the recovery of unattended, unidentified, and severely decomposed bodies from various parts of Kerala.
His involvement extended across Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram districts, where he responded whenever police required assistance in situations that many found too difficult to face.
Those familiar with his work say he never hesitated to take part in recovery operations, regardless of the physical hardship or emotional burden involved. His quiet dedication earned the respect of police officers and local communities alike.
Assistance in Major Criminal Investigations
Over the years, Soman’s experience gave him an important helping hand during several sensitive investigations.
Among the cases mentioned in reports is the Elanthoor human sacrifice investigation, one of the most disturbing criminal cases in recent memory. While investigators carried out their work, people like Soman handled one of the most challenging aspects of such operations, recovering victims with dignity despite extremely difficult circumstances. Police have described Soman’s role in this case as a decisive contribution to the investigation.
His contribution remained largely behind the scenes, receiving little public attention despite its significance.
A Routine Call That Changed Everything
The turning point came on June 2, when Soman took part in the recovery of a body found in Chandanapally, in an advanced state of decomposition after remaining undiscovered for nearly 22 days.
Although he wore personal protective equipment during the operation, reports state that the protective suit tore during the process. While the recovery was underway, a thorn reportedly pierced his leg, leaving what initially seemed like a small, minor wound.
At first, the injury did not appear serious. However, within days, Soman developed a persistent fever and began experiencing worsening health complications. Despite seeking medical care, the source of the illness was not immediately identified, and it took nearly a month before doctors were able to trace the infection back to exposure sustained during the body recovery operation.
Soman’s Journey to Recovery at TMM Hospital
As the infection progressed, Soman’s condition became increasingly serious, and he was brought to Tiruvalla Medical Mission Hospital for specialised care.
The medical team at TMM Hospital performed four surgeries on his leg over time in a determined effort to control the infection and prevent further complications. Since then, Soman has remained under close observation at the hospital, with doctors and nursing staff monitoring his progress closely as he continues his treatment.
The prolonged hospitalisation has been physically exhausting for Soman and emotionally difficult for his family but throughout, the team at TMM Hospital has stood by them, offering not just medical treatment but reassurance during an uncertain time.
Community and Police Stand Beside a Man Who Served Others
News of Soman’s condition quickly spread through the community, prompting an overwhelming response from people who recognised his years of service.
Moved by his condition, police personnel themselves came forward and contributed close to ₹1 lakh to support his treatment. The District Police Chief also extended assistance, with officers describing Soman’s decades of quiet service as deserving of the same support he had long given others.
Public representatives, local residents, voluntary organisations, and well-wishers came together to extend further financial and emotional support to help the family manage the growing medical expenses. According to reports, MLA Varghese Mammen coordinated assistance from various organisations and individuals, ensuring that support reached the family during this challenging period.
Minister Visits Hospital to Meet Soman
As concern for Soman continued to grow, Minister Ramesh Chennithala visited him at Tiruvalla Medical Mission Hospital during his treatment to enquire about his health and offer words of encouragement.
During the visit, the Minister held discussions with hospital board members George Kosh Mailpra, Raju Thomas, and Reji Sam, along with the doctors treating Soman. Dr. Dennis Abraham and Assistant Administrator Roji Mathew were also present and briefed the Minister on his condition and the treatment underway at the hospital.
MLA Varghese Mammen, DCC General Secretary Ippan Kurian, Roji Kattasseri, Youth Congress state secretary Jijo Cherian, and Congress block office-bearers Benny Skaria and Aji Thampan were among the several public representatives, doctors, hospital officials, and local leaders present during the visit.
The Minister interacted with Soman and his family members, and assured that every possible effort would be made to support him through his recovery.
The Unseen Dangers of an Overlooked Responsibility
Recovering decomposed bodies is among the most hazardous and emotionally demanding tasks associated with police investigations. Those involved are exposed to biological hazards, infectious materials, and distressing environments that require both physical endurance and mental resilience.
While the public often hears about criminal investigations and rescue operations, the individuals who assist in recovering victims rarely receive attention. Their work is carried out quietly, often without recognition, despite the personal risks involved.
Soman’s illness has drawn attention to the need for greater awareness of these occupational hazards, and to the importance of ensuring adequate protective equipment and medical support for those engaged in such work.
A Story of Courage Beyond Recognition
Soman never sought headlines for the work he carried out over the years. His role was simply to help whenever help was needed, ensuring that those who had lost their lives could be recovered with dignity and that investigations could move forward.
Today, as he continues his recovery under the care of the medical team at Tiruvalla Medical Mission Hospital, the compassion shown by his family, doctors, public representatives, police personnel, and countless members of the community reflects the respect he has earned through years of selfless service.
For years, Soman was the one who showed up to help. Now, the police, the public, a minister, and the team at TMM Hospital are showing up for him.