Jadavpur University student found dead inside campus, probe on
The Statesman | 13 September 2025The student, identified as 21-year-old Anamika Mondal of Majerhati Nimta, was discovered around 10.20 p.m. floating near Gate No 4 of the campus, close to the arts faculty student union room, police said. Fellow students pulled her out and attempted CPR before rushing her to KPC Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared her dead. Police have registered a case of unnatural death and sent the body for post-mortem examination. Forensic teams are expected to visit the campus Friday. Investigators said they are reviewing footage from three CCTV cameras near the gate and faculty building to determine how she ended up in the pond.
According to students, a cultural event organised by the Drama Club was taking place nearby with music and performances when the incident occurred, possibly masking cries for help. Meanwhile supporters of the ABVP tried to enter the premises of the varsity, breaching the security cordon. Police prevented them from entering the campus.
The death has ignited political sparring on campus. The Trinamul Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) questioned why the university allowed late-night programmes and reiterated long-standing demands for CCTV surveillance and a permanent police outpost. TMCP president Trinankur Bhattacharya said, “This is not a natural death. Two years ago, we saw Swapnadeep’s death. Today it’s Anamika. Those who oppose CCTV and police posting must take responsibility.” SFI leaders countered, accusing TMCP of politicising the tragedy. SFI’s all-India general secretary, Srijan Bhattacharya, said, “As an alumnus, I am shocked. Only Trinamul can indulge in such political mudslinging at a time like this.” The incident recalls the August 2023 death of a first-year Bengali student, who allegedly fell from a hostel balcony after ragging, prompting authorities to install additional CCTV cameras.
However, many students allege security checks remain lax. Police said the investigation will focus on whether Mondal slipped into the pond accidentally or if any foul play was involved. Meanwhile, the university authorities admitted that the number of security guards on campus is inadequate. However, vice-chancellor (officiating) Amitava Dutta said that such programmes should not continue till such late hours. He also expressed doubt as to whether the incident actually occurred during the programme. Amitava admitted that the number of security guards is far below requirement. In his words, “We have such a large campus.
Over the past few years, many security personnel have retired. As a result, there is currently a shortage. We have to manage with limited staff. There is, of course, surveillance on campus, but perhaps the patrolling team was not present in that particular area at the time. We are discussing the matter. We will ensure that such incidents do not happen again in future. I also hope that the vice-chancellor will soon join us.”
