Shimla, Nov 8
The All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) District Committee in Mandi is demanding an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the suspicious death of a 21-year-old B.Sc. Nursing student at Aaroma College in Sundernagar.
The alleged victim reportedly fell from her hostel terrace on October 23, 2024, around 2 a.m. under circumstances that have left her family and community with lingering questions. In a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, AIDWA highlighted inconsistencies surrounding the college’s account of events, questioning why she was allegedly on the terrace at such an unusual hour to collect clothes and how others became aware of her fall so immediately.
Further concerns arose when it was reported that the hostel warden, using the victim’s secured phone, contacted her aunt instead of her immediate family following the incident. Her father noted irregularities, such as the wet condition of the hospital bed and additional unexplained injuries to her head, which raised further suspicion. Additionally, when family members visited her hostel room days later, they discovered items like alcohol bottles, cigarette packets, and a letter, adding to the family’s concerns about a potential conspiracy.
AIDWA has also criticized the police response, questioning why her room wasn’t sealed and seeking clarification on whether an FIR was registered. Another troubling detail was the report that the college’s CCTV cameras were allegedly turned off during the incident, raising concerns about possible institutional neglect.
To ensure transparency, AIDWA has urged that a high-level judicial inquiry be led by a High Court judge and that college officials, including the principal and hostel warden, should be barred from leaving until the investigation concludes. This case has sparked public anger and calls from AIDWA and the victim’s family for justice, highlighting the need for clear policies to ensure student safety on campus.
