MORADABAD, India (BN24) — A 23-year-old mother in the Karula area of Moradabad, India, allegedly placed her 15-day-old baby boy inside a refrigerator after being unable to soothe him, authorities and family members said Friday. The infant was rescued by a relative and survived the ordeal. Doctors later confirmed the woman was suffering from postpartum psychosis at the time of the incident.
The incident unfolded early Friday morning when the woman, reportedly overwhelmed by her newborn’s persistent crying, placed the baby inside a refrigerator and went to sleep. According to the family, the baby’s grandmother heard muffled cries and discovered the infant inside the appliance. The child was pulled out and rushed to a nearby doctor, who confirmed the infant’s condition was stable.
The identity of the mother has not been disclosed due to patient confidentiality. Family members initially believed she was under the influence of “evil forces” and resorted to traditional rituals in an attempt to treat her behavior. When those efforts failed, she was taken to the Archna Raj Psychiatry and De-Addiction Centre.
Dr. Kartikeya Gupta, a psychiatrist at the facility, later diagnosed the woman with postpartum psychosis, a rare but severe mental health condition that can occur after childbirth. She is currently receiving professional counselling and medical treatment, according to doctors familiar with her case.
The incident has drawn attention to the lack of awareness and support surrounding maternal mental health in India, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Mental health professionals emphasize that postpartum psychosis, while rare, is a psychiatric emergency and requires immediate intervention to protect both mother and child.
Authorities have not indicated whether legal action will be taken, as the focus remains on the mother’s treatment and recovery. The baby remains in the care of family members and is reportedly in good health.
The case underscores the urgent need for increased education, early screening, and accessible treatment options for postpartum mental health disorders, which often go undiagnosed in India.
