Munish Sood
Mandi
Massive protests erupted at the private Shoolini University in Solan district on Wednesday, as students staged demonstrations over the death of a fellow student, triggering a day-long uproar on campus. Agitated students, along with the victim’s family, levelled serious allegations against the university administration, intensifying the controversy.
The deceased has been identified as 21-year-old Nitin, son of Kalyan Chauhan, a resident of Rohru in Shimla district. On March 28, he was found hanging in his rented accommodation in Madhuban Colony and was declared dead upon being taken to the hospital. Police recovered a mobile phone, a diary, and a rope from the spot, while no injury marks were found on the body except a ligature mark on the neck.
According to the s*uicide note found in the diary, the student cited personal distress as the reason for taking the extreme step. Initial investigation did not indicate any external pressure or conspiracy. However, the case took a dramatic turn after students alleged that Nitin was under severe mental stress due to being paid less than the package promised during placement, and faced exploitation at his workplace. They also accused the university of failing to fulfil its claims of 100% placement.
As protests intensified, police registered a case against the university administration for abetment to suicide and have launched a detailed investigation. Evidence collected from the scene is being sent to SFSL Junga, and officials confirmed that all angles are being thoroughly probed. Action under Section 194 of BNSS has been initiated, and questioning of the university authorities is ongoing.
Meanwhile, the university management, in its defence, quoted Pro-Chancellor Vishal Anand as stating that an internal committee has been constituted to investigate the matter, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.
The incident has once again raised serious questions over placement practices and accountability in private universities
