Sunil Chadha
Dharamshala: A high-level fact-finding committee constituted by the Himachal Pradesh government has launched a detailed probe into the suspicious death of a 19-year-old Government College-Dharamshala student, a case that has sparked outrage amid grave allegations of ragging and sexual harassment.
The committee, set up by the Himachal Pradesh Higher Education Department, visited the college campus and began examining all aspects related to the incident. Headed by Additional Director (Colleges) Harish Kumar, the five-member panel includes principals of three government colleges and a senior superintendent from the education department.
During the inspection, the committee held discussions with the college administration, reviewed documents and assessed campus arrangements. Statements of students, especially girl students, were recorded to understand the alleged harassment and the circumstances that may have led to the student’s mental distress.
College Principal Rakesh Pathania confirmed the visit but declined to comment, stating that the inquiry was underway. The committee is expected to submit its report to the state government within three days.
CM orders suspension, UGC steps in
The case has drawn strong political and institutional response. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the professor allegedly named by the student in a video statement would be suspended with immediate effect. “The matter is being taken very seriously. Anyone found guilty will face strict action,” the CM said, adding that there would be no leniency.
The University Grants Commission has also constituted a separate fact-finding committee after taking suo motu cognisance of the incident. Terming the episode “deeply distressing”, the UGC said student safety was paramount and assured the family that accountability would be ensured.
FIR against students, professor; multiple agencies seek reports
Based on a complaint filed by the victim’s father, the Dharamshala police have registered a case against three students and a professor under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Anti-Ragging Act. The student, a second-year undergraduate, d*ied on December 26, 2025, after battling severe physical and mental distress for nearly three months.
The Himachal Pradesh Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Commission has sought a police report following allegations of caste-based abuse, while the State Women’s Commission has also taken cognisance and asked the Kangra SP to submit a detailed report. Investigators say all angles, including conflicting video statements that have surfaced, are being examined as the probe continues.
