KANNUR, KERALA – April 13, 2026 – The abrupt end of Nithin Raj R.L, a 22-year-old first-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) student, on April 10 has ignited a firestorm of allegations at Anjarakandy Dental College. Raj was found critically injured after an alleged fall from a five-storey building on campus, succumbing to his injuries later that day. The incident has triggered serious claims of faculty harassment, specifically targeting the student for his caste identity and skin tone. Chakkarakkal police have initiated an 'unnatural death' probe under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), as a case is registered.
Suspensions and Scrutiny Mount
In the wake of the student's death, two teachers from Anjarakandy Dental College have been suspended pending inquiry. This action comes after a complaint lodged regarding their potential role in Nithin Raj's demise. College authorities, however, have denied broader allegations surrounding the incident. Concurrently, an internal committee has commenced its own examination into the circumstances.
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Escalating Accusations and Calls for Justice
Nithin Raj's family has vociferously pointed to caste discrimination and bias related to his skin tone as contributing factors to his death. They assert that he was repeatedly subjected to targeted mistreatment due to these personal attributes. Classmates have echoed these sentiments, leveling accusations against the department head, identified as Dr. M.K. Ram, and describing the punitive practices within the department as severe and psychologically damaging. The unfolding situation has galvanized calls for a high-level investigation and accountability from various quarters.
Background to the Incident
Nithin Raj, originally from Nedumangad in the Thiruvananthapuram district, was discovered in a gravel-laden area between the college's administrative block and hospital. He was rushed to the college casualty unit, where he was pronounced dead. His body was subsequently transported to his hometown for cremation. The initial police report registered the case as an unnatural death, with the college administration referring to it as a suspected suicide.
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