A 19-year-old first-year BSc Nursing student from Dayananda Sagar University in Kanakapura, Bengaluru, died by alleged suicide on Tuesday, February 4. The victim, identified as Anamika Vineeth, was a native of Kannur, Kerala. According to reports, Anamika was subjected to harassment by the college Principal, leading to her tragic death.
The incident came to light on Tuesday night when concerned classmates tried reaching out to her. When she did not answer their calls, they broke open the door to her room and found her dead. According to reports, Anamika had been staying alone in her hostel room for the past 15 days as her roommate was on sick leave.
Anamika was reportedly barred from attending college after being found in possession of a mobile phone during an internal exam.
The students reportedly recovered two notes from her room—one addressed to her family and another detailing the alleged harassment she endured at the hands of the university management. However, students claim that the letter containing accusations against the administration has gone missing, raising further concerns.
The victim’s family and fellow students have accused the college authorities of subjecting Anamika to severe mental distress. “In the last few days, she faced intense mental harassment from the Principal. The Principal, along with two other teachers, verbally abused her and slut-shamed her. She had stopped attending classes recently,” a student told the media.
Malayali students at the university have also spoken out about restrictive campus policies, particularly concerning mobile phone usage. As per the restrictions, all students are required to submit their phones at the reception during college hours. The administration is particularly harsh towards them, Malayali students allege.
If you are aware of anyone facing mental health issues or feeling suicidal, please provide help. Here are some helpline numbers of suicide-prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.
Tamil Nadu
State health department's suicide helpline: 104
Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre - 044-24640050 (listed as the sole suicide prevention helpline in Tamil Nadu)
Andhra Pradesh
Life Suicide Prevention: 78930 78930
Roshni: 9166202000, 9127848584
Karnataka
Sahai (24-hour): 080 65000111, 080 65000222
Kerala
Maithri: 0484 2540530
Chaithram: 0484 2361161
Both are 24-hour helpline numbers.
Telangana
State government's suicide prevention (tollfree): 104
Roshni: 040 66202000, 6620200
SEVA: 09441778290, 040 27504682 (between 9 am and 7 pm
Aasara 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 the suicide of a loved one.
24x7 Helpline: 9820466726
Click here for working helplines across India.