Tragedy Strikes Bengaluru: 19-Year-Old BBA Student Dies by Suicide Amidst Harassment Allegations

Bengaluru has been shaken by the tragic death of a 19-year-old BBA student who allegedly took her own life following relentless harassment from a senior. The incident, which unfolded at a Paying Guest (PG) accommodation in Marathahalli, has prompted a police investigation and sparked a critical conversation about student well-being and the pressures faced by young individuals in urban living spaces.

The victim, identified as Meghana, a first-year BBA student, was found dead on Monday evening, November 13, 2023, after reportedly hanging herself.

Her untimely demise has sent shockwaves through her family and the local community, shedding light on the severe consequences of alleged bullying and financial pressure among students.

According to preliminary investigations by the Marathahalli police, Meghana had borrowed a sum of Rs 2,000 from a senior student named Shruthi.

What began as a simple loan appears to have escalated into a distressing ordeal for Meghana, as Shruthi allegedly subjected her to continuous harassment for the repayment of the debt. Reports suggest that Shruthi’s demands were not just persistent but also included threats to inform Meghana's parents about the unpaid amount, further intensifying the pressure on the young student.

Meghana’s father, Gangadhar, has shared his profound grief and concern with the authorities, stating that his daughter had been visibly disturbed and distressed by the constant harassment from Shruthi.

His testimony underscores the emotional toll the alleged bullying took on Meghana, leading to this devastating outcome. The family's statement paints a grim picture of a student overwhelmed by stress and fear, unable to find solace or resolution to her predicament.

Responding swiftly to the gravity of the situation, the Marathahalli police have registered a case against Shruthi under Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which pertains to abetment to suicide.

This legal action signifies the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the allegations, aiming to uncover the full extent of the harassment and hold those responsible accountable. The investigation is currently ongoing, with police officials meticulously gathering evidence and questioning individuals to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to Meghana's tragic decision.

This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by students, particularly those living away from home in PG accommodations.

It calls for greater awareness, robust support systems, and proactive measures to address mental health challenges and prevent harassment in student communities. The community awaits justice for Meghana, hoping that her tragic story will lead to meaningful changes that safeguard the well-being of other young lives.