The peaceful suburb of Vasai was left in shock and mourning as news of Dr. Delisa Pereira’s untimely death broke earlier this week. A respected physiotherapist at Cardinal Gracias Hospital, Dr. Pereira, 39, died by suicide at her residence in Papdi on Monday evening. The case has since taken a tragic and unsettling turn, as her husband, Royal Pereira, has been arrested on charges of abetment of suicide.
A Talented and Beloved Professional
Dr. Delisa Pereira lived with her husband, Royal Pereira, and their 12-year-old daughter in Papdi’s Sonarbhat area. She was known for her professional excellence and compassion, working tirelessly at the well-known Cardinal Gracias Hospital in Bangli, Vasai.
Beyond her medical career, Delisa was admired for her multifaceted personality. She had a passion for fitness and often participated in various competitions. She even secured a spot as a finalist in a Misses India contest, a platform celebrating the achievements of married women.
Her colleagues at Cardinal Gracias Hospital describe her as an exceptionally warm and approachable person. “Delisa was beloved by her patients. Her smile and dedication touched everyone who met her,” said Dr. Dipali Pawar, a fellow doctor. Nurses and staff at the hospital echoed similar sentiments. Asmita Patil, a nurse at the hospital, recounted how Dr. Pereira had been her usual self on the day of the tragedy, diligently attending to her patients and even discussing upcoming additions to the hospital’s equipment.
The Tragic Incident
On the fateful evening of January 6, Dr. Pereira was found hanging in her home. Earlier that day, she had attended a mass at the local Papdi church and handed a sealed envelope to the parish priest. The envelope, addressed to her mother, contained a note that revealed the distress she had been enduring.
In the note, Dr. Pereira accused her husband, Royal, of having an extramarital affair. She alleged that this betrayal had subjected her to physical and emotional abuse. The letter mentioned instances of abuse spanning from November 26, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
The contents of the note led Dr. Pereira’s mother to file a police complaint against Royal. Following the complaint, Vasai Police arrested him under sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to abetment of suicide and domestic abuse. Senior Police Inspector Balkrishna Ghadigaonkar confirmed the arrest, stating, “The accusations made in Dr. Delisa’s note are now part of our investigation, and we have taken the accused into custody.”
A Shocking Revelation
The details of Dr. Pereira’s struggles have left her community grappling with grief and disbelief. Friends and colleagues expressed their shock, recalling her as a vibrant and determined individual who juggled her professional responsibilities and personal interests with grace.
Her participation in the Misses India contest is particularly remembered as an example of her zest for life. “She was a woman of many talents, someone who didn’t hesitate to push boundaries and inspire others,” said a close friend.
However, beneath this exterior, she was battling immense pain. Her note revealed not only the emotional toll of her husband’s infidelity but also the physical abuse she endured.
Impact on Her Community
Dr. Pereira’s death has sent ripples through the local community, sparking conversations about domestic abuse and mental health. Colleagues at Cardinal Gracias Hospital have been profoundly affected, struggling to come to terms with her loss. “Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled,” said a staff member.
Patients, too, mourn the loss of a doctor who was deeply invested in their well-being. “She treated not just our ailments but cared about our overall health,” one patient shared.
Calls for Justice and Awareness
The tragic circumstances surrounding Dr. Pereira’s death have reignited the discourse on the challenges faced by women in abusive relationships. Her story highlights the need for greater support systems and societal awareness. Activists and community leaders have urged for justice and called for stricter measures to protect women from domestic violence.
At the same time, mental health professionals stress the importance of creating safe spaces where individuals facing emotional or physical abuse can seek help without fear of judgment.
A Final Goodbye
As the community mourns Dr. Pereira’s loss, her life serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden battles many face. She was not only a skilled doctor but also a vibrant, inspiring individual whose light was extinguished too soon.
The tragedy has left her family, friends, and colleagues grappling with unanswered questions and a profound sense of loss. Her daughter, in particular, faces an unimaginable void, made all the more heartbreaking by the circumstances.
Dr. Pereira’s funeral service was held at the same Papdi church she visited just hours before her death. The community gathered to bid a tearful farewell, their hearts heavy with sorrow and regret.
In Memory of Dr. Pereira
The story of Dr. Delisa Pereira is one of immense potential, tragically cut short. It is a stark reminder of the importance of addressing issues like domestic abuse and mental health. Her life and untimely death have left an indelible mark on her community, prompting calls for awareness, justice, and change.
As the investigation continues, Vasai will remember Dr. Pereira not for the tragedy of her death but for the life she lived—a life dedicated to healing, inspiring, and giving hope to others.
