The suspected suicide of a student from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University has ignited a political storm, placing the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) under intense scrutiny. J.S. Sidharth’s tragic death, allegedly a result of ragging and assault by SFI members, has prompted vehement criticism from opposition parties, leading to calls for action and justice.
Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has condemned the SFI, accusing it of resorting to violence and intimidation tactics to suppress dissent and alternative viewpoints on college campuses. He highlighted the plight of students who, coerced by the party’s leadership, find themselves entangled in legal troubles, hindering their future prospects and perpetuating a cycle of dependence on political entities.
Amid mounting pressure, Governor Khan has urged for an end to political violence, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for Sidharth’s family. Expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing police investigation, he has pledged to monitor the case closely and address the family’s concerns.
Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan has labeled Sidharth’s death as a wake-up call, denouncing the SFI’s alleged dominance over campuses under the patronage of the CPI(M) leadership. He accused SFI leaders of subjecting Sidharth to a public trial for innocuous interactions, calling for accountability from college authorities who turned a blind eye to the party’s high-handedness.
In response to escalating tensions, Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has demanded an impartial investigation into the case, criticizing CPI(M) leaders for attempting to suppress evidence and shield the accused. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has ordered a special investigation team to probe the incident, reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
As the investigation unfolds, the SFI faces mounting scrutiny, with opposition parties and student unions mobilizing protests to demand justice for Sidharth. The tragic incident has reignited debates surrounding campus violence and the need for stringent measures to curb political intimidation and coercion.
