Punjab student dies by suicide; was harassed regularly while travelling to college

A BA student of Government Brijindra College in Punjab’s Faridkot died by suicide at her home after returning from college last Tuesday, after she was reportedly harassed by a group of youths while travelling to and from the institution.The death of the student, identified as Aditi, has now triggered a protest by the Punjab Students’ Union (PSU), which has demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible and stronger safety measures for female students around educational institutions.Police have registered a case against unknown persons on the complaint of Aditi’s father and launched an investigation.STUDENTS RAISE HARASSMENT CONCERNSPSU members took to the streets and submitted a memorandum to the Faridkot Senior SP, demanding speedy justice for Aditi and strict legal action against those responsible for her harassment. Students alleged that harassment of girls outside schools and colleges has become a recurring concern. They claimed that some youths scale the college walls to enter the campus, harass female students and obtain their mobile numbers to trouble them.One female student said she had faced a similar incident in the past. She claimed that a police complaint was filed and CCTV footage identifying the youths was provided, but no effective action was taken. PSU leader Harveer Kaur said the police administration must ensure speedy justice for Aditi’s family and take immediate action against those responsible.PSU DEMANDS STRONGER SECURITYThe student union demanded increased police patrolling outside educational institutions, special drives against harassers and stronger CCTV surveillance at college gates.It also sought a dedicated helpline for girls to report harassment and seek assistance.The students warned that if the accused were not arrested soon and stronger safety arrangements were not put in place, the union would launch a major agitation.POLICE REGISTER CASE AGAINST UNKNOWN PERSONSFaridkot district SP Narinder Singh said a case had been registered against unknown persons based on the complaint filed by Aditi’s father.He said the police were investigating the matter thoroughly and assured that anyone found responsible would not be spared.- Ends