Kerala medical students' death: Action council says not suicide

Thiruvananthapuram: A statewide strike has been called in Kerala on April 28 by the Nithin Raj Action Council, demanding justice in the death of medical student Nithin Raj at a private medical college in Ancharakandi Medical College. The Action Council, formed by 52 Dalit organisations, has rejected claims that the death was a suicide and alleged serious irregularities surrounding the incident.

According to the council, the circumstances of the death raise a strong suspicion. It pointed out that there were no bloodstains at the site where Nithin Raj was said to have fallen from the fourth floor, and no visible injuries on the body consistent with the impact of such a fall. These factors, they argue, intensify doubts about the official version of events. The council also accused college authorities of spreading false information to mislead the investigation.

The Action Council has sharply criticised the police probe, calling it a complete failure. It is alleged that while police showed urgency in pursuing suspects in an unrelated loan app fraud case in Noida, they have failed to act against two doctors who are currently absconding. The council stated that Dr Ram and Dr Sangeetha, along with the college principal, should be included in the list of accused. It warned that the ongoing investigation risks being derailed and demanded a probe under the supervision of the High Court to ensure fairness.

The council further demanded cancellation of the college’s affiliation, holding it responsible for the death of a Dalit student who aspired to become a doctor. It has also sought compensation of ₹10 crore for the victim’s family. Announcing plans for intensified protests, the council said the statewide hartal on April 28 marks the first phase of a broader agitation and called for public support across all sections of society.