Dalit rights organizations protested in Dharamshala on Thursday , issuing a 15-day ultimatum to the Himachal Pradesh government. They demand swift justice following the death of a female student from Government College, Dharamshala. The student died on December 26 in Ludhiana, allegedly due to severe depression caused by ragging and sexual harassment. Police filed a First Information Report (FIR) on January 1 , naming a college professor and three female students.
Protesters gathered outside the Kangra deputy commissioner’s office. Groups including the Maharishi Valmiki Guru Ravidas Mahasabha led the demonstration. They warned of a "bigger agitation" across the state if their demands are not met within the 15-day period. Amit Valmiki, a Mahasabha member, criticized the delayed response. He stated, "A considerable amount of time has passed since the death of the student." Valmiki questioned potential "pressure" on the administration. He affirmed the Mahasabha’s commitment to blocking the Punjab border if justice is not delivered.
Balwant Singh from the Baba Deep Singh Kalipul Seva Organisation-Una joined the protest. His organization submitted a formal letter outlining their demands to the deputy commissioner. Singh highlighted the broader implications of the case. He stated, "What happened to one student today could happen to someone else tomorrow." He emphasized the need for accountability to prevent future incidents. Singh warned that "crimes will not stop" if authorities make compromises.
Allegations in the Case
The student’s father provided a detailed account of the alleged abuse. He reported his daughter was beaten by three senior students on September 18 . He also accused an assistant professor at the college of engaging in "obscene acts" with her. These traumatic events reportedly caused his daughter immense mental stress. This led to a rapid deterioration of her health and ultimately, her death.
Accused Individuals and Charges
Police have booked Ashok Sharma, an Assistant Professor of Geography at the college. He faces charges related to sexual harassment. The varsity immediately suspended Professor Sharma following the allegations. The three female students involved in the alleged assault face charges under multiple sections. These include sections 115(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). They are also charged under Section 3 of the Himachal Pradesh Educational Institution (Prohibition of) Ragging Act 2009. The charges specify voluntarily causing hurt and common intention.
Ongoing Investigation and Oversight
The case gained significant public attention after a video emerged. In the video, the deceased student directly accused the professor of harassment and indecent acts. This footage fueled public outrage and intensified calls for action. Law enforcement authorities are actively investigating the matter. Additionally, two separate committees have been established. The state government formed one committee, and the University Grant Commission (UGC) formed another. Both committees are tasked with conducting thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death and ensuring justice.