Maharashtra: 30-year-old bank employee dies by suicide amid fear of contracting rabies after stray dog bite in Kalyan

On 22nd February, a 30-year-old bank employee from Kalyan in Maharashtra died by suicide after he became increasingly anxious and began exhibiting unusual behaviour following a stray dog bite that he had kept hidden from his family. Police have registered an accidental death report and recovered a note in which he expressed deep dear about contracting rabies.

Incident discovered after family returned home

The deceased has been identified as Ayas Vishwanath Amin. He lived with his family in the Tisgaon Naka area of Kalyan East. Ayas was working at a bank branch in Thane for several years. According to media reports, police said that he was alone at home as his family had travelled to their native place.

When the family returned on Sunday night and found the door locked from inside, they forced it open and discovered him hanging. Senior police inspector Hemant Gurav of Kolshewadi police station said that an FIR of accidental death has been registered and further investigation is underway.

Dog bite concealed, incomplete treatment

During the probe, police recovered a suicide note from his room. In the note, he mentioned that he had been bitten on the leg by a stray dog some time ago but had chosen not to inform his family to avoid worrying them.

Furthermore, he had taken only one dose of the anti-rabies vaccine and was yet to complete the prescribed course of five doses. In recent days, the family members had noticed a marked change in his behaviour. He appeared deeply anxious, spoke repeatedly about his health, and seemed disturbed by certain sensations that he believed were linked to the bite, according to his note.

In the note, he reportedly referred to experiencing panic at the sight of water and expressed fear that his condition might deteriorate. He wrote that he did not want his family to witness his suffering and stated that no one should be held responsible for his death.

Medical perspective on post exposure care

Medical experts have reiterated that rabies is preventable if prompt and complete post exposure prophylaxis is administered. In its advanced neurological stage, the infection may lead to agitation, hallucinations, hydrophobia, muscle spasms and abnormal behaviour. Doctors advise that any dog bite or scratch should be treated seriously, with the wound thoroughly washed using soap and water, followed by authorised medical treatment and completion of the full vaccination schedule.

Rising concern over stray dog bites in the region

Stray dog bites remain a significant public health concern in Kalyan Dombivli and adjoining areas. In September last year, as many as 67 dog bite cases were reported in a single day in the twin city, triggering panic among residents. Thane, Kalyan, Bhiwandi and Ulhasnagar have all reported multiple bite incidents amid a growing stray dog population. At least three rabies related deaths were recorded in the wider region over the past year.

In response to the mounting concern, the Thane Municipal Corporation has launched a special drive titled Rabies Free Thane, aiming to vaccinate more than 25,000 stray dogs in the coming weeks.

The tragic death has once again drawn attention not only to the stray dog menace but also to the intense fear and mental distress that can follow a bite.

Suicide helpline:

Tele MANAS: 14416, 18008914416

iCALL – 9152987821

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