A 17-year-old college student was found dead late Friday night in a hostel washroom in Jajpur district, Odisha. Police identified the deceased as Asish Kumar Pal, a resident of Kendudipi village. While initial police reports suggested suicide, his family immediately alleged murder and accused college authorities of concealing information.
The incident occurred in the Panikoili police station area. Police confirmed the student’s death on Saturday. The case has sparked significant tension and protests in the local community.
Investigation Underway
Asish Kumar Pal’s body was discovered hanging with a towel in the college hostel washroom. The discovery happened late Friday. Police launched an investigation into the circumstances of his death. They sent Asish’s body to Danagadi Community Health Centre for a post-mortem examination. Authorities await the autopsy report. This report will clarify the official cause of death.
Family Alleges Murder, Cites Discrepancies
Asish’s father, Ajay Kumar Pal, firmly rejected the possibility of suicide. He detailed the information provided by college officials. "The college authorities informed us that our son was ill," Pal stated. "They said he was admitted to Jajpur Road hospital around 3 AM."
Mr. Pal arrived at the hospital two hours later. "When we reached the hospital around 5 AM," he explained, "we found out that our son had already died."
Ajay Pal emphasized his son’s character and academic record. "My son was a brilliant student," Pal asserted. "He was always good at studies. Besides, he was very strong and stable in mind." He added, "I am confident he did not die by suicide. He has been murdered." The family insists Asish had no history of mental distress.
College Accused of Information Concealment
News of Asish’s death quickly circulated. Family members, other students, guardians, and local residents converged on the hospital. They openly accused college authorities of withholding critical information about the incident. Protests erupted at the hospital premises.
A scuffle reportedly took place between police officers and the agitated crowd. Ajay Kumar Pal formally filed a complaint with local police. His complaint specifically alleges murder, demanding a thorough investigation into the events leading to his son’s death.
Police Vow Thorough Investigation
A senior police official confirmed the registration of a case concerning the incident. "We have registered a case," the official stated. He reiterated the body’s transfer for autopsy.
"We are investigating the matter from all angles," the official added. "The exact cause of death will be known after the autopsy report." Police have urged the public to remain calm. They assured a comprehensive inquiry to ascertain the truth behind Asish Kumar Pal’s tragic death.
The investigation continues as police gather evidence and interview witnesses. Further updates are expected following the release of the post-mortem report.