New Delhi: A 22-year-old medical student died by suicide at her residence in Karnataka after allegedly facing mental harassment from her classmates, who spread rumours about her having an affair with a professor. Nikhitha MU was a final-year student of Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery at Raghavendra Ayurvedic College in Malladihalli, Karnataka.
Allegations by family
According to a complaint filed by her father, Umashankar GN, a headmaster, Nikhitha shared a good rapport with a lecturer at her college, identified as Dr Raju. He alleged that some classmates spread rumours suggesting an affair between the two.
Umashankar said that these rumours led to repeated taunts from fellow students. He claimed that this caused humiliation and severe emotional distress to his daughter.
Continued distress despite family support
Her father stated that the family had advised Nikhitha to ignore such remarks and focus on her studies. However, the alleged harassment did not stop and her distress continued.
The repeated circulation of such claims among her classmates made the situation worse, according to the complaint.
Suicide note and police action
Unable to cope with the mental pressure, Nikhitha died by suicide on Wednesday at around 11 am, police said.
A suicide note was recovered from her room, which detailed her mental distress.
Based on the complaint, Umashankar named the classmates he holds responsible for his daughter’s death and sought legal action against them. Police have registered the case and started an investigation.