CUSAT student death: Inquiry finds no fault with university

A CUSAT inquiry found no institutional fault in the death of student Dhanush D, who was found on April 22, 2026. The university expressed grief.
By Newsroom | Education, Crime |

A preliminary inquiry into the recent death of Dhanush D, a sixth-semester Electrical and Electronics Engineering student at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), has concluded that no lapses occurred on the part of the university authorities. The report, commissioned by CUSAT Vice-Chancellor Junaid Bushiri, was submitted by the Registrar and Controller of Examinations.

The student, identified as Dhanush, a 20-year-old hailing from Alappuzha, was found hanging in his paying guest accommodation near the campus on the evening of April 22, 2026. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation by relevant authorities.

CUSAT student death: inquiry reveals no lapses on part of authorities - 1

University's Response

CUSAT has expressed its grief over the incident. University officials, teachers, and students gathered on campus on April 23, 2026, to pay their respects. The university registrar placed a wreath on behalf of the CUSAT community.

Background and Unsubstantiated Rumours

Dhanush was a participant in a recent hackathon and described as active throughout his academic career by some acquaintances. There were unsubstantiated rumours circulating that his death was linked to an attendance shortage for semester examinations, a claim that some students familiar with Dhanush have reportedly denied. It has also been mentioned by some students that Dhanush was undergoing treatment for depression. The official inquiry's findings, however, focus solely on the actions and omissions of the university administration.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What did the CUSAT inquiry find about the student's death?
The preliminary inquiry into the death of Dhanush D found no lapses by the university authorities. The report was submitted to the Vice-Chancellor.
Q: When and where was CUSAT student Dhanush D found?
Dhanush D, a sixth-semester student, was found hanging in his paying guest accommodation near the CUSAT campus on the evening of April 22, 2026.
Q: Were there any rumors about the cause of death?
Yes, there were rumors about attendance shortages for exams, but some students denied this. Some also mentioned he was being treated for depression. The official inquiry focused only on the university's actions.
Q: How did CUSAT respond to the student's death?
CUSAT expressed its grief, and officials, teachers, and students gathered on campus on April 23, 2026, to pay their respects. The registrar placed a wreath on behalf of the university.