HPNLU student hospitalised after suicide attempt

A 3rd-year student of Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla is undergoing treatment after a suicide attempt on Tuesday.

The student was first taken to the Community Medical Centre at Dhami before being shifted to Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Shimla.

The incident follows a ragging complaint against the student by some batchmates.

In a video recorded by the student before the attempt, he alleged that the complaint is false and that the University was unwilling to properly examine the evidence despite repeated requests. He expressed frustration at having to repeatedly visit the police station and added that it had caused him considerable distress.

People close to the student allege that he was under immense mental pressure after the complaint and was repeatedly harassed by the complainants, affecting his well being. They also said that the student following the ragging complaint, the student was moved to a hostel that isolated him from most of his batchmates.

In a statement, HPNLU acknowledged the complaint against the student and said the matter was under consideration by the competent authorities under its Anti-Ragging Regulations. The inquiry is underway and no final findings have been reached. The statement added that the complainant had separately lodged a first information report (FIR) at Arki Police Station and that HPNLU, in compliance with its obligations under the Anti-Ragging framework had also informed Dhami Police Chowki of the matter.

The university has said that presenting allegations as established facts while the inquiry is pending was premature and could prejudice the proceedings. As such, it appealed to all concerned from spreading unverified information.

If you or anyone else you know are facing mental health issues or having suicidal or self-harming thoughts, please access the helpline number given below:

iCall - 9152987821 (Health Helpline - Mon—Sat, 10 AM—8 PM. Languages: English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Assamese, Kashmiri.)

Aasra offers support to individuals and families during an emotional crisis, for those dealing with mental health issues and suicidal ideation, and to those undergoing trauma after death by suicide of a loved one.

24x7 Helpline: 9820466726