Standing nonchalantly behind the double-paddled, heavy iron gate of the forensic ward of Government Mental Health Centre, Thrissur, Thomas Kutty* looked out. His gaze momentarily wandered across the faces of the visitors and then to the space beyond them.

Hearing someone calling his name, Thomas, dressed in a shabby T-shirt and shorts, looked up. The doctor, who had been attending to him, signalled him towards the gate.

Published - July 31, 2026 08:00 am IST