A 22-year-old Dalit student, R. L. Nithin Raj, died on Sunday, April 12, at a hospital in Kannur, two days after allegedly falling from a college building. The incident at Kannur Dental College has sparked widespread outrage, with the family accusing faculty members of caste-based harassment.
Nithin Raj, a first-year BDS student from Thiruvananthapuram, was undergoing treatment at Kannur Medical College Hospital before he succumbed to his injuries.
Family claims repeated humiliation by teachers
The student’s father, Rajan, alleged that his son was repeatedly humiliated by teachers over his caste and background. He claimed that faculty members used derogatory language and insulted both the student and his family.
“He worked hard without support to secure admission on merit, but was harassed over his caste and complexion. They even threatened to fail him if he complained,” Rajan said.
An audio clip that surfaced after the incident allegedly captures Nithin saying, “I tolerated the insults as far as I could… They insulted my mother… My answer sheet was shown to others to mock my mistakes.”
College takes action, police begin probe
Following the incident, the college suspended two faculty members, including the head of the Dental Anatomy Department and an associate professor, pending an internal inquiry.
Police have registered a case and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fall. Authorities are also verifying the authenticity of the audio clip.
Human Rights Commission seeks report
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the case and directed the police to submit a detailed report within a week.
Judicial member K. Baijunath has asked the Kannur City Police Commissioner to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations of caste discrimination.
Political leaders demand high-level inquiry
The incident has drawn strong political reactions across parties. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala called for a high-level probe, saying the allegations of caste-based harassment must be taken seriously.
Leader of the Opposition V. D. Satheesan questioned how such incidents could occur in educational institutions. “Teachers are meant to guide students. A detailed probe is necessary,” he said.
CPI(M) MP A. A. Rahim described the incident as deeply painful and assured support to the family until justice is delivered. He also compared the case to the death of Rohith Vemula, highlighting concerns over caste discrimination in higher education.
