In response to demands from the grieving family of Veterinary University student J S Sidharthan, who was tragically found hanging in his hostel room on February 18 following alleged torture by a group of students, the Kerala government has taken a significant step. An official statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) confirmed that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has agreed to transfer the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Sidharthan’s parents met with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and pressed for the case to be handed over to the CBI, citing their dissatisfaction with the ongoing investigation. The CMO’s communication acknowledged the family’s distress, stating, “His death was shocking, and police have conducted a fair probe into it. But the family wanted the case to be handed over to the CBI. Considering their sentiments, the government has decided to entrust the case with the CBI.” It further highlighted that all the accused individuals involved in the incident have been apprehended.
The unfortunate incident revolves around allegations that an 18-member student gang, purportedly led by a few members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), subjected Sidharthan to torture following accusations of misbehavior with a female student. The case has stirred widespread outrage, with both the opposition Congress and BJP condemning the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) for allegedly shielding the accused SFI members.
The decision to transfer the investigation to the CBI underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring a thorough and impartial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Sidharthan’s untimely demise. It reflects a response to the demands for justice from his family and the broader community.
As the investigation transitions to the CBI, the focus now shifts to uncovering the truth behind the tragic events that led to the loss of a promising young life. The move signifies a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice and accountability in Kerala’s educational institutions.