The Central Bureau of Investigation has assumed control over the investigation into the death of a 20-year-old veterinary student in a college hostel located in Kerala’s Wayanad district.
On April 5th, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) initiated a formal investigation into the JS Sidharthan suicide case. According to the information provided in the FIR, Sidharthan endured mental and physical abuse from seniors and classmates for a continuous period of 29 hours leading up to his suicide.
Informing that the FIR has been lodged against 20 individuals under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) including Sections 120B, 341, 323, 324, 355, 306, and 506, along with Section 4 r/w 3 of the Kerala Prohibition of Ragging Act. Among them, Akhil K has been identified as the primary accused, with other individuals named as co-accused in the case. Their names include Kashinandhan R, Ameen Akbarali U, Arun K, Sinjo Johnson, N Asif Khan, Aman Ihsan, Ajay J, Althaf A, Soud Risal EK, Adithyan V, Muhammed Dhanish, Rehan Binoy, Akash SD, Abhishek S, Shreehari RD, Dons Dai, Billgate Joshwa Thannikkode, Naseef V, and Abhi A.
JS Sidharthan, a 20-year-old student, tragically lost his life in February under distressing circumstances at KVASU hostel. Allegedly, he was subjected to torment by some SFI (Student Federation of India) members, leading him to take his own life.
The incident sparked statewide outrage, prompting Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan to suspend Professor (Dr) MR Saseendranath, the vice-chancellor of the Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University. Additionally, 31 students faced suspension due to their suspected involvement in the case as per the anti-ragging committee’s recommendation.
The accused individuals, primarily associated with the Students Federation of India (SFI), a student group linked with the Communist Party of India (Marxist), are under the pressure of legal consequences. Notably, 11 arrests have been made, including four SFI leaders.
JS Sidharthan’s body was discovered hanging in the hostel restroom, prompting a detailed examination revealing signs of severe physical abuse prior to his death. The police initiated an investigation, uncovering instances of brutal assault by fellow students, leading to the suspension of twelve individuals, including left-wing student leaders.
In response to mounting pressure, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan ordered a CBI inquiry into the case. Amidst allegations against the Kerala government by JS Sidharthan’s father, Jayaprakash, demanding swift action, a potential protest outside the Kerala CM’s residence looms, seeking justice for his son’s untimely demise.
