A 22-year-old architecture student from a private engineering college in Bengaluru died by suicide at his home on July 11. The incident occurred in the Nandaramayyan Palya area, under the jurisdiction of the Madanayakanahalli police station. The student, Arun, was allegedly driven to take his own life due to ragging and mental harassment he experienced at the college.
Arun was in his final year of the Architecture course and had earned a free seat based on his academic performance. He was originally from Hassan district and came from a modest background; his parents were daily wage laborers. Outside of his studies, Arun was passionate about painting, particularly portraiture, and was recognized for his artistic talent.
At the time of the suicide, Arun was alone, as his parents were at work. Before his death, he recorded a video in which he described his mental state and accused some classmates of badmouthing him, which caused him distress. He also alleged ragging by some of his peers in the video.
The video was reportedly shared within a college WhatsApp group. Upon viewing it, the college administration alerted Arun’s family, but they arrived at the scene after he had already taken his life.
The police have initiated an investigation, registering a case of unnatural death. They are awaiting a formal complaint from the family before taking further action.
