AISU Demands Action from NCPCR, UGC, NHRC Over Student Suicides at PES University

The All India Student Union (AISU) has called for immediate action from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), the University Grants Commission (UGC), and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) regarding a series of student suicides and alleged misconduct at PES University in Bengaluru. In a letter dated May 19, 2024, AISU expressed deep concern over the alarming number of student deaths and the continued employment of faculty members accused of harassment.

The letter highlighted the tragic case of Aditya Prabhu, a B.Tech student whose suicide was reportedly linked to mental harassment by university professors and management. Despite a chargesheet filed by the Girinagar Police against three professors—Ajay Massand, Kannan P.S., and Karthik S.—these individuals continue to teach at the university, a situation that AISU finds unacceptable.

AISU detailed the distressing circumstances surrounding Aditya Prabhu’s death, including the university’s insensitive handling of his mother on the day of the incident. This case is part of a broader pattern of neglect and misconduct at PES University, as evidenced by four student suicides within a span of nine months.

Following Aditya’s death, Surya M. Achar, a third-year B.Tech Computer Science student, committed suicide on October 27, 2023. Subsequently, a 19-year-old BBA student named Vignesh K. ended his life on January 30, 2024. Most recently, on May 14, 2024, Carasala Rahul, a 21-year-old B.Tech student, jumped to his death from the fifth floor of a university building. Each case points to systemic issues within the university’s handling of student welfare.

The AISU letter accuses PES University of creating a toxic environment through intimidation, emotional abuse, and harassment, both by faculty and management. The university’s management has also been criticized for allegedly using their influence to suppress information and alter the reported causes of these incidents.

Despite previous notices from NCPCR and written complaints to UGC, there has been little to no action taken against the university. AISU’s letter calls for a transparent investigation involving a judge and a student representative, to ensure unbiased scrutiny and accountability.

The AISU’s appeal underscores the urgency of addressing these critical issues to prevent further tragedies and to secure justice for the affected students and their families. Immediate intervention is deemed essential to uphold the principles of student safety and well-being in educational institutions.