Family of Deceased Dental Student Visits Campus, Alleges Murder
The family of Nithin Raj, a BDS student at Kannur Dental College in Anjarakandy who allegedly committed suicide on April 10, visited the college campus on Tuesday. The visit was marked by highly emotional scenes as the student's father Rajan, sister Rakhi, and brother-in-law Ashokan examined the exact spot where Nithin was found after falling from a building. Subsequently, the grieving family also visited his hostel room to gather further insights into his final days.
Family Rejects Suicide Theory, Points to Murder
In a significant development, the family refused to meet with any authorities from the dental college during their visit. Rajan, the father, strongly reiterated his belief that his son was murdered and that the death was not a suicide. "I do not want to see the people who killed my son," he stated emphatically, highlighting the family's deep distrust of the college administration.
Ashokan, the brother-in-law, made serious allegations, claiming that Nithin Raj had endured severe mental torture from certain teachers, including one named Latha. He insisted that these individuals should be charged with abetment to suicide. Furthermore, Ashokan alleged that there were deliberate attempts to dilute caste-based harassment charges in the case. The family has announced that the Kannur City police commissioner will record a fresh statement based on their detailed observations during the campus visit.
Statewide Hartal Called by Dalit Organizations
Meanwhile, tensions are escalating across Kerala as 52 Dalit organizations, supported by like-minded political parties, have called for a statewide hartal on April 28. This protest action is a direct response to what they describe as a lack of progress in the investigation and serious lapses by the police handling the case. The council coordinating these efforts has formally sought a probe under the supervision of the high court to ensure transparency and accountability.
The council issued a powerful statement alleging that "a student who was supposed to become a doctor was either killed or driven to suicide." In addition to demanding justice, they have called for substantial compensation of Rs 10 crore for the bereaved family to acknowledge their loss and suffering.
Protest Convention and Violent Clashes in Kannur
A protest declaration convention was held at the E K Nayanar Auditorium in Putharikandam Ground on Tuesday, drawing significant attention. Participants demanded that all individuals responsible for Nithin Raj's death be brought before the law. Specifically, the convention insisted that not only department heads Dr M K Ram and Dr Sangeetha Nambiar but also the college principal and other officials be included in the investigation and potential charges.
Simultaneously, tensions flared in Kannur when a march organized by the Dalit League to the dental college turned violent. Reports indicate that a clash broke out as security officials deployed by the college management attempted to block the protesters from entering the campus premises. This incident underscores the growing unrest and community anger surrounding the case, with calls for justice becoming increasingly urgent and widespread.
