The Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) community is in mourning after a third-year electrical and electronics engineering (EEE) student, Dhanush D of Alappuzha, was found hanging at a private students' hostel adjacent to the campus on Wednesday night.
Body Brought to Campus for Last Rites
The body of the student was brought to the campus on Thursday, where students, teachers, and university officials gathered to pay their last respects. The university registrar placed a wreath on behalf of the university community.
Vice-Chancellor Orders Investigation
According to sources close to the university, the vice-chancellor has directed the registrar and the controller of examinations to conduct a probe and submit a report by Saturday. University officials are expected to hold hearings with the principal, class teacher, and classmates before the report is submitted.
Classmate Recalls Dhanush's Active Participation
A classmate, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "I have known him for the past three years. We were in the same class and same hostel. But the incident was sudden. I was not there at the hostel when it occurred, but the news shocked all of us." The student added that Dhanush had participated in a hackathon a few days before his death and had been active throughout his student career. He denied rumors that the student committed suicide due to attendance shortage. "His mother comes here often; it was she who helped him find his room here. It did not appear that he had any problems with anyone, and all his friends are devastated," the classmate said.
Allegations of Depression Medication
Meanwhile, some students who knew Dhanush claimed he was taking medication for depression. The funeral of Dhanush was held near his home at 5 pm on Thursday.
