Forensic Report in Patna Medical Student Death Case Points to Sexual Assault
In a significant development in the mysterious death of an 18-year-old medical aspirant in Patna, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has submitted its biological report to the police. The report, delivered on Saturday, indicates the possibility of sexual assault on the victim, adding a crucial dimension to this high-profile investigation.
FSL Findings Reveal Critical Evidence
The forensic analysis detected the presence of male semen on the student's clothing, specifically the leggings she wore at the time of hospitalization. This discovery strongly suggests sexual assault and harassment occurred prior to her death. A senior police officer, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the FSL report explicitly points toward sexual assault.
An FSL source elaborated, "Semen was found in the leggings provided by police, indicating something wrong happened with the girl. There is a strong possibility of sexual assault. However, the exact timing cannot be determined from this report alone."
The forensic team emphasized that DNA profiling remains pending. If the sperm sample is not degraded, a DNA profile can be generated, potentially revealing whether one or multiple individuals were involved in the assault.
Corroboration with Earlier Medical Findings
This revelation strengthens earlier observations from the post-mortem examination conducted at Patna Medical College Hospital. Medical examiners had detected injuries consistent with possible sexual violence and noted that assault could not be ruled out. The report highlighted:
- Injuries to her private parts
- Nail abrasions on her body
These findings collectively paint a disturbing picture of what the young student may have endured before her tragic death.
Case Background and Investigation Progress
The victim, originally from Jehanabad and preparing for the NEET medical entrance examination, resided in a girls' hostel in Patna. She was found unconscious in her locked room on January 6 and succumbed to her condition on January 11 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital.
The case has generated widespread attention, sparking student protests and prompting a suo motu notice from the Bihar State Women's Commission. Bihar Director General of Police Vinay Kumar ordered Patna range Inspector General Jitendra Rana to investigate, leading to the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on January 16, headed by Patna Superintendent of Police (east) Parichay Kumar.
Investigation Uncovers Personal Struggles
The SIT's investigation has revealed several personal challenges the student faced:
- Recovery of her diary showing exam stress, family disputes, a past relationship, and previous suicidal thoughts
- Deleted chats and searches related to poisons and sleeping pills on her phone
- Confirmation of sleeping pill traces in her urine
- Identification of the source of sleeping pills she ingested before being found unconscious
- Discovery of three empty medicine strips
The team has thoroughly examined her movements in both Jehanabad and Patna, questioned family members and relatives, and is now awaiting crucial DNA results and analysis from AIIMS-Patna.
AIIMS Medical Board Review Underway
The forensic team at AIIMS-Patna has stated it will withhold final expert opinion until all necessary documents and medical reports are fully provided by the SIT. Dr. Vinay Kumar from the forensic medicine and toxicology department explained, "The police have shared some documents with the executive director, accompanied by a request for an expert medical board review. The board is currently examining what it has received and has requested additional materials from the SIT."
Dr. Kumar added that the SIT is cooperating fully, providing available documents while actively seeking those not currently in their possession. This collaborative approach between forensic experts and investigators aims to ensure a comprehensive understanding of all evidence before reaching conclusive findings.
The case continues to develop as forensic experts work meticulously to analyze biological evidence, while investigators piece together the final days of the young medical aspirant's life. The community awaits answers as authorities pursue justice in this tragic incident that has shaken educational circles across Bihar.