Tragic Death of College Student in Dharamsala Sparks Outrage and Investigation

The tragic death of a 19-year-old college student in Dharamsala has sparked outrage and led to an investigation into allegations of harassment and ragging. Pallavi, a second-year student, reportedly faced intimidation from classmates and inappropriate behavior from a faculty member, which severely impacted her mental health. Following her passing, the police have registered a case against a professor and three students. The incident has raised significant concerns about campus safety and the mental well-being of students, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of anti-ragging laws and better support systems within educational institutions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 12:50 IST

Overview of the Incident

The tragic passing of a 19-year-old college student in Dharamsala has raised significant alarm following serious allegations of harassment and ragging. A formal case has been initiated by the police against a college professor and three students based on a complaint from the victim's family.

Details of the Victim

The deceased, identified as Pallavi, was in her second year at Government Degree College, Dharamsala. Her father, a resident of Sidhbari, reported that she faced physical harassment and intimidation from three classmates, along with inappropriate conduct from a faculty member. The family asserts that these experiences severely impacted her mental health, leading to deep depression.

Timeline of Events

Investigations reveal that Pallavi's mental health began to decline following the alleged incidents on September 18, 2025. She endured significant mental stress for several months, which also affected her physical health. Pallavi was treated at various hospitals in Himachal Pradesh and was eventually referred to a medical college hospital in Ludhiana, where she passed away on December 26, 2025.

Legal Actions Taken

In response to the father's complaint and the growing public outcry, the police filed a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Himachal Pradesh Educational Institutions (Prohibition of Ragging) Act. The FIR lists four individuals as accused: college professor Ashok Kumar and three female students—Harshita, Aakriti, and Komolika.

Investigation Progress

Senior police officials have confirmed that a thorough and unbiased investigation is currently in progress. This includes gathering statements from students, faculty, and college administration, as well as collecting medical records from all hospitals where Pallavi was treated. The investigation will also review digital and documentary evidence to clarify the events leading to her death.

Family's Perspective

The victim's father explained that the family did not file a police complaint immediately due to Pallavi's critical condition and the trauma they experienced. Their primary focus was on her treatment, and the delay in reporting was also influenced by their emotional state following her death.

Community Response

This incident has ignited serious concerns among students, parents, and the broader community regarding campus safety, ragging, and student mental health. Many are calling for stricter enforcement of anti-ragging laws, prompt action from authorities, and improved grievance redressal and counseling systems within educational institutions.

Call for Justice

As the investigation unfolds, this case serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions of inaction regarding student welfare and potential institutional failures. The family is seeking justice and urging authorities to hold accountable those responsible to prevent similar tragedies in the future.