Kerala: Justice eludes Hasnas' family

VADAKARA: Hasnas’s house at Thodannur here is not far from that of Jishnu Pranoy. Both the students died in mysterious circumstances with teachers on the accused side as per the versions of relatives. Hasnas (19), a second-year microbiology student at MHES College of Science and Technology, Cherandathur, was found hanging at home on July 22, 2016. The death was allegedly due to the harassment by a few teachers related to ragging by senior students. But even after seven months, police has not filed the charge sheet.

"We had run from pillar to post to get justice. Ministers and leaders visited us and offered support. But nothing has happened," laments Hasnas's brother Hamras T. After the death, police had arrested six senior students, including three girls. Six teachers went absconding and resurfaced after obtaining anticipatory bail. After a month-long strike in the college, the teachers the arrested students are back there.

"My daughter had approached teachers on an issue of ragging. But they forced her to tender an apology in turn which led to the extreme step," said Hasnas's mother, Hayrunnisa. Whenever they approach Payyoli police, Hamras says, the response is that the charge sheet would be filed next week. Though Ms Hayrunnisa reached Jishnu Pranoy's house in Valayam to see Mr Achuthanandan, she cannot meet him due to rush. However, her petition has been handed over to him. Payyoli inspector said the probe was going on, and charge sheet would be filed at the earliest.