Political and Social Repercussions Emerge from NEET Student's Mysterious Death in Patna
Tragic Incident Sparks Outrage
The suspicious death of a NEET aspirant in Patna has taken a significant political and social turn. Prashant Kishor, the architect of the Jan Suraj party, expressed profound sorrow over the incident and urged the authorities to conduct a fresh and impartial investigation. In response to the growing public outrage, the Bihar police have established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve deeper into the case.
Call for Thorough Investigation
On Friday, Kishor stated that the situation surrounding the student's death changed following the release of the post-mortem report, which indicated the necessity for a renewed and fair inquiry by the police. Later that evening, the Director General of Police (DGP) ordered the formation of the SIT to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Concerns Over Possible Sexual Assault
After meeting with the grieving family in Jehanabad, Kishor told reporters, "The post-mortem report clearly suggests that the possibility of sexual assault cannot be dismissed. Therefore, a comprehensive and independent investigation is essential." The student, who was preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), had been residing in a hostel in Patna when she died under suspicious circumstances.
Initial Findings and Family's Allegations
Initially, the police classified the incident as a suicide; however, the family raised concerns about potential rape and murder. The student had been in a coma for several days before passing away on January 11 at a private hospital. Kishor emphasized that their party stands with the victim's family and that justice must be served. He reiterated that the post-mortem findings necessitate a fresh and unbiased investigation.
Family's Doubts on Police Actions
The victim's relatives have questioned the police's preliminary actions, alleging that the student was raped. They also claimed that the current investigating officer is pressuring them to withdraw the case. Despite informing the police that the student was 17 years and four months old, her age was recorded as 18 in police documents.
Demands for Justice and Accountability
Kishor stated, "If there were any lapses in the initial investigation by the police, they must be rectified. On Saturday, we will meet with senior police officials alongside the victim's family to demand a fair and thorough investigation to ensure justice for the girl." He made it clear that if justice is not served, Jan Suraj will take all necessary and democratic steps within the constitutional framework.
Public Protests Erupt
Following the student's death, protests erupted among students and family members. On Thursday, police arrested the owner of the building housing the hostel. Protests occurred in various parts of Patna after the post-mortem report circulated on social media. The DGP later ordered the formation of the SIT, which will be led by the city’s Superintendent of Police.
Ongoing Investigation
In a statement, the police announced, "The IG will oversee the investigation conducted by the SIT, which will include a female Deputy Superintendent and an inspector. The IG will monitor the investigation daily." Earlier in the day, Patna's Senior Superintendent of Police, Kartikeya Sharma, mentioned that the scope of the investigation had been expanded, noting discrepancies between the post-mortem report and earlier medical records. All documents have been sent to AIIMS Patna for expert opinion, and the investigation is being conducted based on the latest post-mortem findings. Those connected to the case will be apprehended soon.