A 19-year-old student of Government Degree College, Dharamshala, died on December 26, 2025, while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Ludhiana. Her death is alleged to be the result of severe trauma stemming from ragging, physical assault, and sexual harassment experienced at her college.
Allegations of Assault and Harassment
According to a formal complaint lodged with the Dharamshala police on January 1, 2026, the alleged incident occurred on September 18, 2025. Three senior female students – Harshita, Aakriti, and Komolika – are accused of assaulting, beating, and intimidating the victim. The complaint also alleges that Professor Ashok Kumar committed obscene acts towards her, causing significant fear and psychological distress.
Following the alleged assault and harassment, the student was hospitalized, and her health reportedly deteriorated. She received treatment at multiple hospitals throughout Himachal Pradesh before being transferred to Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMC) in Ludhiana for advanced care.
Police Investigation
The victim’s father, a resident of Sidhbari near Dharamshala, filed a formal complaint after his daughter’s prolonged illness and subsequent death. Based on this complaint, the Dharamshala police registered FIR No. 03/2026. The FIR includes sections 75 (sexual harassment), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), and 3(5) (criminal intimidation with common intention) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, as well as Section 3 of the Himachal Pradesh Educational Institutions (Prohibition of Ragging) Act, 2009.
Dharamshala Superintendent of Police Ashok Ratan stated that the case is under preliminary investigation. He also noted that initial complaints focused solely on the students, with allegations of sexual harassment added later as new information emerged.
The police investigation aims to determine the sequence of events and the ultimate cause of death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific charges have been filed in this case?
FIR No. 03/2026 has been registered under Sections 75 (sexual harassment), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), and 3(5) (criminal intimidation with common intention) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with Section 3 of the Himachal Pradesh Educational Institutions (Prohibition of Ragging) Act, 2009.
Who are the accused individuals?
The accused individuals named in the FIR are the three senior students, Harshita, Aakriti, and Komolika, and Professor Ashok Kumar.
When did the family first report the incident to the police?
The victim’s father lodged a formal complaint with the Dharamshala police on January 1, 2026.
What steps can be taken to prevent similar tragedies in educational institutions?