A 21-year-old medical student was found dead in a hostel toilet at a private medical college in West Bengal on Saturday night. Lavanya Pratap, a second-year MBBS student from Patna, Bihar, was discovered by others at the institution. Police have initiated an investigation into the incident. His body was moved to the hospital morgue following the discovery.
Investigation Underway
Preliminary findings suggest the death may have been a suicide. Police stated the exact cause of death will be determined by a post-mortem examination. The student’s family has been notified and has traveled to Durgapur. Investigators are interviewing classmates and other hostel residents. Police are also reviewing reports that Pratap failed one subject in recent semester exams and was experiencing mental stress.
Background Information
The college has previously faced security concerns. In October of last year, a female student from Odisha, also enrolled at the same medical college, reported a gang-rape. She was allegedly assaulted after going out with a male friend. Police arrested the male friend and five other individuals in connection with that case.
Support Resources
Individuals experiencing distress or suicidal thoughts are encouraged to seek help. The following helplines are available:
- AASRA: Call 9820466726 or visit their website at http://www.aasra.info/helpline.html
- iCALL: Call 9152987821
- Additional suicide prevention helplines are available at https://findahelpline.com/countries/in/topics/suicidal-thoughts