Kerala student death sparks probe as family alleges faculty harassment at Kannur dental college

A first-year dental student in Kerala’s Kannur district died by suicide, with his family alleging that harassment by faculty members at the college drove him to take the extreme step.

The deceased, identified as Nithin Raj, was a first-year BDS student at a dental college in Anjarakandy. He was found critically injured after falling from a building on campus and later succumbed to his injuries, in what police suspect to be a case of suicide.

Family members have accused faculty of subjecting the student to sustained emotional and verbal harassment. They alleged that he faced discrimination based on caste, colour, and financial background, and was repeatedly threatened with academic consequences.

According to relatives, the student had complained of being humiliated and pressured by teachers, including threats to reduce his marks and intimidate him academically.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are collecting digital evidence, including messages and statements from classmates, family members, and college authorities.

Following the incident, the college administration has suspended two faculty members — the head of the dental anatomy department and an associate professor — pending inquiry.

The case has triggered outrage and renewed concerns over student safety and mental well-being in educational institutions, particularly in cases involving alleged harassment and discrimination.

Authorities have assured a detailed probe, while the family has demanded strict action against those responsible.