Is Rs 3 Lakh Compensation Enough for the Family of the Student Who Died in the 2015 Myladuthurai College Accident?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, the State Human Rights Commission has recommended a Rs 3 lakh compensation for the family of a student who tragically died in a college accident nearly ten years ago. This decision comes after a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding her untimely demise and exposes serious lapses in campus safety protocols.
Key Takeaways
- The SHRC recommended Rs 3 lakh compensation for the victim's family.
- Ramya died in a tragic fall due to locked terrace doors.
- There were significant lapses in safety measures at the college.
- The incident underscores the need for better supervision in educational institutions.
- Authorities failed to provide support to the victim's family for years.
Chennai, Nov 17 (NationPress) Almost ten years after a first-year student tragically lost her life in a fall at Gnanambikai Government Arts College for Women in Mayiladuthurai, the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has advised the Tamil Nadu government to provide a compensation of Rs 3 lakh to her family.
This directive was issued on Monday after the Commission's suo motu intervention, which stemmed from reports regarding the incident. The student, Ramya, who was just 19 years old at the time, had gone to the college terrace with her friend shortly before the unfortunate event.
The terrace door had been locked from the outside by the watchman, who was allegedly unaware that students were present.
Feeling trapped and unable to come down, the two friends attempted to descend using a dupatta as a makeshift rope.
During this attempt, Ramya lost her footing and fell from a considerable height. She suffered critical injuries and was first taken to the Mayiladuthurai Government Hospital before being transferred to Thanjavur Medical College Hospital.
Despite intensive medical care, she succumbed to her injuries, and a police case was filed shortly afterward. As part of its investigation, the SHRC requested comprehensive reports from the Director of Collegiate Education, the Superintendent of Police in Nagapattinam district, and the college Principal.
Upon reviewing the responses, the Commission determined that the events leading to the incident reflected a severe lack of oversight and safety protocols on campus.
It highlighted that no investigation had been conducted to ascertain whether security personnel or college officials had properly checked restricted areas, such as terraces, before locking them.
The Commission noted that the circumstances surrounding the accident were largely due to failures by the college administration and the Directorate of Collegiate Education.
It concluded that neither institution took the matter seriously, as there was no internal inquiry initiated and no effort made to assist or compensate the family over the years.
The SHRC found that the negligent actions of college authorities and the Directorate constituted a violation of the student's human rights.
Declaring that the victim's family deserved relief, it recommended a compensation of Rs 3 lakh as a just and fair amount, marking a significant yet delayed step towards justice for the deceased and her family.
Point of View
This case underscores the pressing need for educational institutions to prioritize student safety and well-being. The SHRC's recommendation for compensation is a step towards accountability, but it also raises questions about the systemic failures that allowed such a tragedy to occur. It is crucial for authorities to implement stringent safety measures to prevent future incidents.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the student at Gnanambikai Government Arts College?
The student, Ramya, died after falling from the terrace of her college, which was locked from the outside by the watchman.
How much compensation has the SHRC recommended?
The SHRC has recommended a compensation of Rs 3 lakh for the victim's family.
What did the SHRC find regarding the college's safety measures?
The SHRC concluded that there was a significant lack of supervision and safety measures on the campus, leading to the tragic incident.
What actions were taken after the incident?
A police case was registered, and the SHRC conducted an inquiry to examine the circumstances that led to the accident.
What does this incident highlight about educational institutions?
It highlights the critical need for educational institutions to enforce safety protocols and ensure adequate supervision in restricted areas.
