NEW DELHI – The University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched a formal investigation into the death of a student at Govt. Degree College in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. The probe follows serious allegations of ragging and sexual harassment. The 19-year-old student died on December 26 at a Ludhiana hospital.
UGC Forms Fact-Finding Committee
UGC officials confirmed the commission’s swift response on Saturday . It established a dedicated fact-finding committee. This body will thoroughly investigate all aspects surrounding the student’s death. The UGC Anti-Ragging Helpline registered a complaint based on media reports. These reports alleged ragging led to the student’s death.
College authorities presented a differing view. They stated the incident was a death, not a suicide. A separate police inquiry into the matter commenced earlier. The UGC committee will work independently while acknowledging the ongoing police investigation.
Police File Case, Book Individuals
Police registered a formal case on January 1 . This action followed a complaint from the student’s father. Law enforcement officials subsequently booked three students from the college. These individuals face charges of ragging and voluntarily causing hurt.
Additionally, police booked a college professor. This professor faces allegations of sexually harassing the deceased 19-year-old woman. The police investigation aims to gather all evidence and establish the sequence of events leading to the student’s death.
Father Details Allegations
The student’s father provided specific details in his official complaint. He alleged three senior students assaulted his daughter. He identified them as Harshita, Aakriti, and Komolika. This alleged beating occurred on September 18, 2025 , according to the complaint. The father’s statement forms a central part of the police inquiry.
The complaint also named Professor Ashok Kumar. The father alleged Kumar engaged in obscene acts with his daughter. These claims highlight serious concerns about the college environment and student safety.
Student’s Decline and Death
The student required hospitalization due to the alleged beating and harassment. She later died while undergoing treatment at a Ludhiana hospital. The father’s complaint explicitly linked these incidents to her deteriorating health.
He stated his daughter experienced severe mental stress and fear following the alleged abuse. This emotional distress led to a rapid decline in her overall health, according to the complaint. Her death prompted widespread concern and calls for accountability.
UGC Pledges Stringent Action
UGC officials have affirmed a strong commitment to addressing the incident. They assured that culprits would not be spared. The commission pledged stringent action against any individuals found responsible. Student safety remains a paramount concern for the UGC.
The newly formed fact-finding committee will collect evidence and testimonies. Its findings will inform further actions by the UGC. The commission aims to ensure justice for the deceased student and reinforce safety protocols across educational institutions.