Her eyes gouged out a yr ago, Challi gets back vision

Almost a year ago, Challi Kale was brought to Ruby Hall Clinic from Ahmednagar in a shocking state. The 21-year-old’s eyes had been gou...

Almost a year ago, Challi Kale was brought to Ruby Hall Clinic from Ahmednagar in a shocking state. The 21-year-old’s eyes had been gouged out, eyelids torn and her vision damaged, in an assault, allegedly by her husband.

Today, Challi takes the 7 am bus from Karjat village in Ahmednagar and travels alone to attend the last of her check-up sessions. ‘‘I can never forget what my husband did to me,’’ she cries.

Ophthalmologist Dr Parikshit Gogate says, ‘‘Some sharp object must have been used. Even the optic nerve was damaged, making her lose at least 60 per cent of the vision in one eye.’’

Story continues below this ad

Two surgeries helped suture her eyes back but it took a while for her to regain partial vision. ‘‘Technically, she will be visually impaired,’’ says Dr Gogate.

Plastic surgeon Dr Vishwanath Jigjinny performed reconstructive surgery so that her eyes looked normal.

The eldest of nine sisters, Challi tries to help with domestic chores. With a disabled father, and mother who works as a domestic help, life is not easy for her. She now has to do the rounds of the court for justice.

Anuradha Mascarenhas

Anuradha Mascarenhas is a journalist with The Indian Express and is based in Pune. A senior editor, Anuradha writes on health, research developments in the field of science and environment and takes keen interest in covering women's issues. With a career spanning over 25 years, Anuradha has also led teams and often coordinated the edition. ... Read More

Modi will address a rally in the district and open the Purnea airport that will provide air connectivity to several metro cities, fulfilling a longstanding demand in the Seemanchal region.

PM Modi to open Purnea airport, launch Makhana Board in Monday’s visit to poll-bound Bihar

India20 min ago

PM Modi will visit Purnea, Bihar, on Monday to inaugurate projects worth Rs 36,000 crore, including an airport and launch the National Makhana Board. The visit is aimed at boosting development and addressing the neglected Seemanchal region. PM will also announce projects worth Rs 35,461 crore and distribute benefits to beneficiaries under different schemes.

View all shorts

Live Blog