Kolkata shocker: Family lived with elderly man’s decomposed body for days

December 9, 2025

Kolkata: In a disturbing incident reminiscent of the Robinson Street case, police recovered the decomposed body of a 64-year-old man from a locked house in Kasba’s Bosepukur area. Shockingly, his wife and daughter were found sitting beside the body for days, officials confirmed on Tuesday.

Locals became suspicious after none of the family members were seen for nearly three days and the house remained locked from inside. When repeated attempts to contact them failed, neighbours informed a relative, who also tried calling the family. The daughter reportedly kept saying her parents were fine, but refused to let anyone speak to them, increasing suspicion.

Police were called, and after no response from inside, officers broke open the door. They found the body of Sumit Sen, a retired employee from a private organisation, lying in a decomposed state inside the house while his wife and daughter sat near it.

Investigation and Possible Mental Health Angle

The body has been sent for autopsy, and the exact cause and time of death are yet to be determined. Preliminary investigation suggests that all three family members may have been suffering from mental health issues and were socially withdrawn. Locals said the family rarely stepped out, and neighbours often helped them with daily needs.

A senior police officer said:

“A foul smell was coming from the house when we entered. The body was recovered and an investigation is underway. The autopsy will reveal more details.”

Similar Cases in the Past

The incident has revived memories of the 2015 Robinson Street case, where a man lived with his sister’s skeleton and his father’s burnt body. Kolkata has seen similar cases over the years in Kasba, Garfa, Netaji Nagar, Salt Lake, and nearby districts including Murshidabad, Howrah, Barasat and Memari.

The case has once again raised concerns about mental health neglect and the growing trend of extreme isolation in urban households.