A clash occurred in Kannur on April 22 during a Youth Congress march aimed at Ancharakandi Dental College. The demonstrators were protesting for action related to the death of Nithin Raj, a first-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery student who died on April 10. This incident sparked significant unrest, as protesters attempted to breach police barriers to enter the college grounds.

As the situation escalated, demonstrators reportedly overturned barricades set up by law enforcement. In their bid to reach the campus, they clashed with police personnel, resulting in damage to the college’s window panes. Authorities had already deployed a strong police presence in anticipation of potential violence.

The march was led by prominent Youth Congress figures, including Robert Vellamvalli and Vigil Mohanan. Several other leaders joined in, urging accountability concerning the circumstances surrounding Nithin Raj’s demise.

Allegations and Institutional Response

Following Nithin Raj’s death, serious allegations were made against the college, including claims of caste-based discrimination and harassment. In response, the Prestige Educational Trust, which administers the institution, categorically denied these allegations, describing them as “completely baseless.” The Trust asserted that the student’s tragic fall was linked to issues related to a personal loan he had taken out through a mobile application.

According to the Trust, a faculty member had faced harassment from loan recovery agents due to being listed as a reference for Nithin. They maintained that the student had left the principal’s office during discussions about the loan situation before the fall occurred.

In response to the allegations, the police have initiated a case against two faculty members, Dr M K Ram and KT Sangeetha Nambiar, charging them with abetment of suicide as well as violations under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. This legal action underscores the serious nature of the accusations being levelled against the staff at the college.

Legal Actions Prompted by Harassment Claims

In addition to the case against the faculty members, a separate complaint has been lodged against the loan application involved, leading to accusations of harassment. Law enforcement has reportedly arrested three individuals connected to this app as investigations continue. This additional legal action further complicates the situation surrounding Nithin Raj’s death, emphasizing the multifaceted issues at play.

The developments have drawn significant media attention, raising questions about the handling of student welfare and institutional accountability in academic settings. As protests continue, the Youth Congress and other activists are demanding thorough investigations and justice for Nithin’s family.

The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring the area to prevent further unrest. The tragic event has not only impacted the student community but also prompted discussions about systemic issues in educational institutions.

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