The NEET aspirant, a young woman preparing for the national medical entrance examination, died while undergoing treatment after allegedly consuming sleeping pills at a private hostel in Patna on January 11. Initially, police claimed there was no evidence of foul play and treated the case as a suspected suicide.
However, the narrative shifted significantly after the post-mortem report revealed injury marks on the body and confirmed sexual assault, triggering public anger and raising questions over the handling of the investigation.
Forensic Findings Deepen Suspicion
Forensic analysis confirmed the presence of human sperm on the victim’s undergarments, prompting the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to initiate DNA profiling. Samples have reportedly been collected from 22 individuals, including the hostel owner and staff members.
Officials said DNA matching is underway to establish the identity of those involved. Several suspects, including hostel owner Manish Ranjan, have been questioned as part of the probe.
Family Alleges Pressure and Suppression
The victim’s family has alleged sustained pressure from police officials to accept the death as a case of suicide and withdraw allegations of rape. The victim’s brother stated that SIT members repeatedly asked the family to agree to the suicide narrative.
The victim’s mother went further, accusing authorities of attempting to suppress the case and claiming that bribes had been accepted by those involved. The family met Bihar Director General of Police Vinay Kumar and formally demanded a CBI investigation.
Student Protests and Public Outcry
Public anger spilled onto the streets on Friday when female students of Patna University organised a protest march titled ‘Beti Bachao Nyay March’. The demonstration began at Magadh Mahila College and culminated at Kargil Chowk, where protesters demanded justice and a CBI inquiry.
Student groups accused the authorities of shielding influential individuals and failing to act swiftly despite serious forensic evidence.
Government Response and SIT Review
Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Samrat Choudhary summoned the DGP and Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit to review the progress of the investigation. The SIT was directed to expedite the probe and ensure scientific evidence, including DNA matching, is completed without delay.
Officials said the government would cooperate fully with any central agency inquiry if approved by the Centre.
Legal Intervention and Demand for Transparency
A public interest litigation has also been filed in the Patna High Court seeking a court-monitored investigation into the case. Petitioners cited contradictions between police claims and forensic findings as grounds for judicial oversight.
With the Chief Minister now formally recommending a CBI probe, the case has reached a critical juncture, reflecting growing demands for accountability and institutional transparency.