The death of a 22-year-old student in Kerala has triggered widespread outrage after allegations of caste-based harassment, humiliation by faculty members and pressure from a loan recovery app emerged.
Nithin Raj, a BDS student at Anjarakandy Dental College, died after falling from the fifth floor of the college building on April 10.
Family alleges caste abuse
Nithin’s family, from a financially struggling Dalit household near Thiruvananthapuram, accused college staff of repeated caste insults and humiliation.
They alleged he was mocked over his family background, skin colour and social status.
Audio clips reportedly sent by the student before his death described verbal abuse, threats and emotional distress.
Loan app angle also probed
Police said a parallel investigation is examining harassment linked to a loan app from which Nithin had allegedly borrowed money for his mother’s treatment.
Recovery agents were said to have repeatedly contacted college staff, leading to a meeting in the principal’s office shortly before the tragedy.
CCTV footage reportedly showed him leaving the room in tears.
Case registered, faculty suspended
Police have added charges including abetment of suicide and provisions under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
Two faculty members named in complaints were suspended by the college, while a Special Investigation Team has been formed.
Political leaders react
Pinarayi Vijayan called the death painful and unacceptable, while leaders across parties demanded accountability and stronger anti-discrimination laws on campuses.
Painful questions remain
The incident has reignited concerns about caste bias, student mental health and institutional responsibility in higher education.
A family that hoped education would transform their son’s future is now seeking justice.of Kerala dental student Nithin Raj triggers probe into alleged caste abuse and loan app harassment.