Farmer's Tragic Suicide in Kerala Linked to Land Ownership Issues

A farmer in Attappady, Kerala, has tragically committed suicide, reportedly due to the stress of not having land ownership documents. Gopalakrishnan, unable to secure funds for medical treatment because he couldn't sell his land, expressed his despair to relatives before taking this drastic step. The incident raises serious concerns about mental health and land rights in the region, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities. This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need for addressing land ownership issues and supporting farmers facing similar challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 17:00 IST

Tragic Incident in Attappady, Kerala

In a heartbreaking incident in Attappady, located in the Palakkad district of northern Kerala, a farmer reportedly took his own life on Saturday due to the stress caused by the absence of land ownership documents, according to police reports.

Authorities revealed that Gopalakrishnan, a resident of Punchakode in Mannarkkad, informed close relatives early in the morning about his intention to commit suicide before consuming poison.

Relatives of the deceased farmer indicated that Gopalakrishnan had been under significant mental strain as he was unable to obtain the necessary ownership documents for his land. This lack of documentation hindered his ability to sell the land to raise funds for medical treatment.

The police noted that the absence of these documents prevented him from securing the financial resources needed for healthcare, contributing to his despair and ultimately leading to this tragic decision.

Despite repeated attempts, he was unable to acquire the ownership documents for his nine-acre plot located in Puliyara. Following this incident, a case has been registered, and an investigation is currently underway.