Stalin demands time-bound probe in IIT Madras student's alleged suicide

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President MK Stalin on Thursday expressed shock over the suicide of IIT student and demanded time-bound, honest, independent and transparent probe in the matter. "It is extremely shocking that Fathima had committed suicide due to discrimination. Allegations of Fatima's mother has cast a cloud on the secular credentials of Tamil Nadu. This is a worrying trend. This is a shame," the DMK leader said in a statement while adding that it is time we avoid saffronisation of educational institutions.

SFI demands fair probe into IIT Madras student's alleged suicide

The Students Federation of India (SFI) staged a protest outside the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, on Thursday demanding a fair investigation in the case of Fathima Latheef's death. Fathima had allegedly committed suicide on November 8. Speaking to the media, one of the protestors alleged that this was the fifth suicide in the campus since last year and that professors have also committed suicide in the past.

"The management has not conducted any investigation and informed the family of the victim that the suicide was caused due to physical illness. However, the fact is that the victim left a suicide note in her phone, where he has accused a teaching staff", he alleged.

CBI takes over the case

Meanwhile, Chennai Police Commissioner AK Viswanathan said that the case has been handed over to the Central Crime Branch for investigation. Speaking to reporters, he also claimed that he has personally visited the spot of the suicide and examination of several individuals was carried out. "A team will be formed which will be headed by Additional Commissioner and few senior officers to give a better focus and attention considering the sensitivity of the case," apprised AK Viswanathan.

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READ | SFI demands fair probe into IIT Madras student's alleged suicide

Statement from IIT Madras

A statement from IIT Madras said: "It is with deep grief and sadness that IIT Madras has to inform the passing away of a first-year undergraduate student of Humanities and Social Sciences Department". Following the incident, the police, in its primary investigation had revealed that Fatima was separated from her family for the first time and had scored fewer marks in her internal exam. The police said no suicide note was found.

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(With ANI inputs)