What Happened in the Bihar NEET Student Death Case? Blood Samples of 11 Collected, POCSO Sections May Be Added
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Patna, Jan 27 (NationPress) The unexpected demise of a NEET candidate at Shambhu Girls’ Hostel in Patna has caused widespread concern in Bihar, with new developments intensifying the investigation.
The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has gathered blood samples from 11 individuals, including the hostel proprietor Manish Ranjan, marking a crucial advancement in the case.
Those sampled comprise five relatives of the deceased student and six other individuals who are under suspicion.
Some of these suspects were recorded on CCTV footage, while others assisted in transporting the student to the medical facility.
Official sources indicate that the student was a minor, as evidenced by her age certificate. Consequently, authorities are considering incorporating sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act into the investigation.
The findings from the FSL have indicated the presence of sperm on the student’s garments, further heightening concerns of sexual assault.
The victim's family provided the police with the clothing on January 10, and the forensic findings were submitted to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) just two days ago.
DNA samples are currently being obtained from all suspects to ascertain their involvement in the alleged crime.
The post-mortem report from Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) has also suggested the likelihood of sexual assault, contradicting initial police assertions and raising serious doubts regarding the early handling of the case.
In light of evidence of investigative shortcomings, two Station House Officers - Roshni Kumari of Chitragupta Nagar Police Station and Hemant Jha of Kadamkuan Police Station - have been suspended immediately.
Adopting a firm stance, Home Minister Samrat Choudhary summoned the Director General of Police (DGP), Additional Director General (ADG), Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), and the entire SIT to reassess the investigation.
As the SIT has yet to reach a conclusive outcome, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has now been involved in the investigation.
This case has surfaced as a significant challenge for Bihar’s law enforcement and investigative framework, emphasizing issues surrounding safety, accountability, and institutional oversight.
With the victim’s family seeking justice and forensic evidence indicating a serious crime, all attention is now focused on the DNA test results, which are anticipated to be pivotal in identifying the culprits.
Beyond the investigation itself, this case has ignited broader concerns regarding women’s safety, administrative negligence, and abuse of power, revealing a troubling reality of vulnerability in society.