Bettiah Student Suicide: 17-Year-Old Found Hanging in Lodge Room, Friends Flee
In a tragic incident that has shocked the community, a 17-year-old Class 12 student was discovered hanging in his room at a lodge near Piuni Bagh Shiv Temple in Bettiah, West Champaran district. The discovery was made on Thursday, prompting an immediate police response and a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Victim Identified and Background Details
Police have identified the deceased as Shivam Kumar, a resident of Ramnagar Bankat village under the Majhaulia police station area. According to authorities, Shivam had been residing at the lodge in Bettiah for approximately two months, alongside other students, to focus on his studies. The incident came to light after local residents alerted the police to a suspected suicide, leading to a swift arrival of a police team at the scene.
Police Investigation and Key Developments
Upon reaching the location, officers found Shivam hanging inside the room. Bettiah Sadar SDPO Vivek Deep provided critical insights into the case, noting that the victim's friends, who had been staying with him, fled the premises, leaving the room open. Their sudden departure has raised suspicions, and police are actively examining their role as part of the ongoing investigation.
Given the gravity of the situation, authorities have escalated their efforts by calling in a dog squad and a forensic science laboratory (FSL) team to the spot to meticulously collect evidence. Additionally, police are questioning nearby residents and individuals associated with the lodge to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the tragedy.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Steps
SDPO Deep emphasized that the case is being investigated from all possible angles to ensure no stone is left unturned. The body has been transferred to the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for a comprehensive post-mortem examination. The exact cause of death will be confirmed only after the autopsy report is finalized, with further investigation continuing in the meantime.
This incident has cast a shadow over the educational environment in Bettiah, highlighting concerns about student safety and mental health. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, authorities remain committed to uncovering the truth behind this heartbreaking event.
