Kerala Dental Student Laid to Rest Amid Emotional Scenes and Harassment Allegations
Thiruvananthapuram: The body of R L Nithin Raj, a 23-year-old first-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) student, was laid to rest on Sunday on family-owned land in Uzhamalakkal. The burial followed his tragic death on April 10 after falling from a building at a dental college in Ancharakandi in what authorities suspect was a suicide.
Emotional Farewell as Community Gathers
Emotional and heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as the young student's body was brought home for public viewing. A large crowd of grieving relatives, neighbors, and local residents gathered to pay their final respects to Nithin Raj. Family members were visibly distraught, breaking down repeatedly as they struggled to cope with the sudden and devastating loss of their loved one.
Family Alleges Sustained Caste-Based Harassment
In a distressing revelation, Nithin Raj's sister, Nikita, has come forward with serious allegations of sustained harassment faced by her brother at the dental college. She stated that Nithin Raj, who belonged to a scheduled caste community, was subjected to continuous targeting by faculty members throughout his time at the institution.
"He was constantly targeted over his caste, his skin color, and his financial background," Nikita said. "Teachers would openly insult him during class, call him derogatory names, and deliberately make him feel inferior. Even after we formally complained to the college principal, no corrective action was ever taken against the perpetrators."
Specific Incidents of Verbal Abuse Detailed
Nikita provided specific and shocking details of the harassment, alleging that one faculty member called Nithin Raj a "rabid dog" in front of the entire class. She explained that when her brother eventually reacted to the unbearable treatment, the verbal abuse only intensified and became more severe.
"Some students were even forced to laugh at the derogatory remarks made in class," she added. "Those who refused to participate or speak up against the harassment faced punishment. This created an environment of fear where no one dared to challenge the faculty's behavior."
Visit from Another Bereaved Mother Highlights Systemic Issues
The funeral was marked by a poignant visit from Sheeba M R, the mother of JS Siddharthan, who died in a suspected ragging-related incident at Pookode Veterinary College. Sheeba came to offer her condolences and support to Nithin Raj's family, and the meeting between the two grieving mothers moved many attendees to tears.
"I have not stepped out of my house for any social function since my own son died," Sheeba said emotionally. "But when I heard about this tragic case, I felt compelled to come. Only a mother who has endured this profound pain can truly understand what this family is going through."
Calls for Accountability and Systemic Reform
Sheeba also raised critical questions about the handling of her son's case and pointed to a broader pattern of negligence. She emphasized that the absence of proper accountability within educational institutions is allowing such tragedies to repeat across Kerala.
"If strict and decisive action had been taken in previous cases, this might not be happening again," she stated. "There appears to be no genuine fear of the law or consequences among those responsible for such harassment. This cycle of injustice must be broken through systemic reform and enforcement."
Investigation Details and Ongoing Probe
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding Nithin Raj's death. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from the college building reportedly shows the student entering the lift shortly before the incident occurred on Friday afternoon. The police are examining all evidence as part of their ongoing probe into the suspected suicide and the allegations of harassment.
The tragic case has sparked renewed discussions about caste-based discrimination, student safety, and institutional accountability in Kerala's higher education system. Community leaders and activists are calling for a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure justice for Nithin Raj and his family.
