Hyderabad: In a tragic incident that has shaken the local community, a 20-year-old second-year degree student, Mounika, was found dead by hanging at her residence in the Lalaguda area of Medchal-Malkajgiri district on Thursday, October 10, 2025. The family alleges that she faced harassment from her volleyball coach, identified as Ambaji, over matters related to love affairs, which they believe may have contributed to her taking the extreme step.
Mounika, a student at a reputed college in Hyderabad, was described by friends and relatives as bright, disciplined, and active in sports, particularly volleyball. According to family members, she had not shared details of the alleged harassment with them, and the incident came as a shock to them. Her friends reportedly confirmed that the coach had been pressuring her, causing significant mental stress over a period of time.
Police response and investigation
The Medchal-Malkajgiri police have registered a case and launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances of Mounika’s death. Two special teams have been formed to examine the matter closely. Police officials stated that no suicide note or video has been found so far, and they are investigating whether there were any external pressures or threats that might have contributed to her death.
Authorities are also questioning classmates, friends, and college staff to gather evidence. They are exploring all possible angles, including harassment, emotional distress, and other factors that could have led to the tragedy. The local administration has assured the family that a detailed inquiry will be conducted, and any culpable individuals will be held accountable.
Community concerns and mental health
The incident has sparked concern about the mental well-being of students and the responsibilities of educators and sports coaches in maintaining a safe and supportive environment. Experts emphasise that young adults often face pressure from multiple fronts—academic, social, and personal—and harassment from authority figures can have serious psychological consequences.
Psychologists note that students should have access to counselling services and helplines, and institutions must ensure a transparent mechanism for reporting harassment without fear of retaliation. Mental health professionals stress that even high-performing students who appear confident and disciplined can experience internalised stress and emotional distress.
Moving forward
The local community, students, and college authorities are awaiting updates as the police investigation continues. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safe learning environments, mental health awareness, and strict action against harassment in educational institutions. Authorities have urged students to report harassment promptly and seek support from family, friends, or professional counsellors.