Investigation Launched into Tragic Suicide of Dental Student in Kerala

Investigation Initiated Following Student's Suicide

A tragic incident involving the suicide of dental student Nitin Raj at Ancharakandy Dental College in Kannur has prompted the National Dental Commission to request a report from the college principal. This action follows a complaint filed by Yadhu Krishnan, the state secretary of ABVP. Kerala's Health Minister Veena George described the death of R.L. Nitin Raj as "shocking and deeply saddening," assuring that strict legal action would be taken against those responsible. She also mentioned that the Kerala University of Health Sciences has formed an investigative committee to ensure all necessary legal measures are enforced rigorously. In a social media post, the minister expressed her condolences to the grieving family, emphasizing that caste-based discrimination and harassment should never be tolerated in any educational institution or anywhere in Kerala.

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On April 13, the Kerala Students Union (KSU) organized a protest march to Ancharakandy Dental College, which was later dispersed by police.

Congress MP K. Suresh labeled this incident as institutional murder, highlighting the serious nature of Nitin Raj's suicide as a BDS student at a private medical college in Kannur. He pointed out that the caste-based discrimination faced by a Dalit student has tarnished the dignity of the state, calling it a challenge to the Constitution. According to police reports, on April 10, the BDS student was found severely injured near the medical college block, suspected to have attempted suicide by jumping from the building. Despite being rushed to the medical college hospital for treatment, he succumbed to his injuries later. The public relations department of the Kerala government stated that the Chakkarakkal police have registered a case, adding charges under Section 108 of the Indian Penal Code for abetment of suicide, along with provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.