Kannur: The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad(ABVP) has demanded a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the tragic death of Nithin Raj, a first-year BDS student at Anjarakkandi Medical College in Kannur, Keralam. The student, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, died by suicide on April 10, Friday after jumping from a college building, reportedly following sustained harassment, including caste-based and racial abuse by members of the faculty.
Nithin Raj, described as a bright student who had joined the institution with high aspirations, is alleged to have faced repeated humiliation at the hands of teachers, including Dr. M.K. Raman, Head of the Anatomy Department, and Associate Professor Dr. Sangeetha. According to ABVP, the student was subjected not only to caste-based discrimination but also to derogatory remarks regarding his complexion. It has also been alleged that the faculty members insulted Nithin’s parents, exacerbating his distress.
Allegations of discrimination and institutional failure
ABVP National Executive Council Member Kalyani Chandran strongly condemned the incident, stating that Nithin Raj was driven to take his own life due to persistent discrimination and verbal abuse by faculty members. She highlighted that such grave incidents raise serious concerns about the state of the education system in Keralam, which is often lauded for its high literacy rate. Chandran criticised the education department for its failure to effectively monitor and address such issues, calling the situation “serious” and “condemnable.” She further stated that it is deeply shameful that students are forced to endure such treatment from educators who are expected to foster a supportive and inclusive academic environment.
While acknowledging that Dr. M.K. Raman and Dr. Sangeetha have been suspended, Chandran asserted that suspension alone is insufficient to deliver justice. She demanded their immediate arrest, along with a thorough investigation into all individuals involved in the case. Emphasising the need for accountability, she called for stringent action to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
Calls for accountability and justice
Echoing similar concerns, ABVP Keralam State Secretary Yadhukrishnan described the incident as “deeply concerning” and characterised the alleged actions of the faculty as a “severe crime.” He stated that the discrimination faced by the student was both deplorable and unacceptable, and stressed that those responsible must be held accountable without delay. Yadhukrishnan also raised serious allegations against the Principal of the institution, accusing them of deliberately ignoring repeated complaints against the faculty and attempting to shield the accused without taking necessary action. He stated that the Principal should also be treated as culpable and demanded strict action, including immediate removal from official responsibilities.
Further, he called for the immediate arrest of the faculty members accused of subjecting the student to harassment and abetting his suicide. He also pointed to reports suggesting that similar misconduct by other staff members may be prevalent in the institution, with several students facing comparable situations. This, he noted, underscores a broader systemic issue within the college. Describing the incident as an “institutional murder,” Yadhukrishnan said it represents a matter of deep humiliation for society in Keralam. He affirmed that ABVP would continue to stand firmly with the family and friends of Nithin Raj, vowing to lead efforts to ensure that justice is delivered.
