A third-year nursing student, Chaithanya Kumari, who attempted suicide in December last year, passed away on Sunday after being in a coma for over three months. She was 20 years old and a native of Kottayam, Kerala. She was studying at the Manzoor Hospital and School of Nursing.

Officials reported that Chaithanya had gone out and returned unwell one day. The hostel warden, Ranjani, allegedly scolded her and denied her food and water. Following this, the student attempted to take her own life on December 7 and slipped into a coma.

Protests and police action

Chaithanya was first treated at a private hospital in Mangaluru before being moved to Kasturba Medical College Hospital and later Aster MIMS in Kannur. She was eventually shifted to the Kozhikode Government Medical College, where she passed away.

Her death led to widespread protests, with her mother and fellow students accusing the hostel warden of mental harassment. Many students claimed they were subjected to harsh treatment, and some described the hostel as having "prison-like" conditions.

Following the incident, the warden was removed from duty. However, after Chaithanya’s death, the police took her into custody. Officials confirmed that she would be questioned today as investigations continue.

The case has sparked concerns about the treatment of students in hostels and the need for better regulations to ensure their safety and well-being.

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