18-Year-Old Mentally-Challenged Girl Kept in Chains for Years Due to Lack of Government Support

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18-Year-Old Mentally-Challenged Girl Kept in Chains for Years Due to Lack of Government Support

In Nuapada district, 18-year-old Payal Meher has lived in confinement for years due to severe mental disabilities and lack of government assistance. Cared for solely by her 80-year-old grandfather, she remains chained for safety as the family struggles without welfare benefits.

Published by Dibyajyoti | January 10, 2026

Payal Meher, an 18-year-old girl from Gayatripada village in Sinapali block of Nuapada district, has been living a life of confinement for years because of her severe mental disability and lack of institutional support. Orphaned early—losing her mother at just two months old and abandoned by her father after he remarried—Payal has been raised by her maternal grandparents, Gayadhar and the late Pramila Meher.

Despite seeking treatment at multiple hospitals, including specialised facilities in Ranchi, her condition showed little improvement. To ensure her safety, Payal’s grandfather kept her under constant supervision, often restraining her within a room using chains attached to her leg.

Following her grandmother’s death three months ago, 80-year-old Gayadhar now manages all responsibilities alone. He has been appealing to local authorities for help with medical care and basic necessities, but continues to struggle. Although Payal receives a modest monthly disability allowance of ₹1,200, Gayadhar has not been included in key government welfare schemes such as old-age pension or ration card benefits. Their small income from agriculture barely covers essential needs.

Local residents have expressed deep concern and urged government intervention to improve Payal’s living conditions. Villager Jashoda Meher highlighted the family’s hardships and appealed for immediate support.

Nuapada Collector Madhusudan Das acknowledged the situation, stating that the BDO and Tehsildar have been instructed to take necessary steps to assist the family.

Public contributions for Payal’s medical treatment and daily needs may be sent to the following address:

Name:Payal MeherGuardian:Gayadhar MeherVillage & Panchayat:HatibandaBlock:SinapaliDistrict:Nuapada