Shashi Tharoor backs family’s claims of caste-based harassment, calls for accountability in Kannur student death.
April 12, 2026: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has reacted strongly to the death of 22-year-old dental student Nithin Raj in Kerala’s Kannur, backing allegations made by the victim’s family of caste-based harassment by faculty members. The first-year BDS student was found critically injured after a fall from a college building and later succumbed to his injuries. Tharoor described the incident as a result of “relentless verbal abuse, casteist slurs, threats, and academic sabotage.”
Drawing parallels with the earlier death of student JS Sidharthan, Tharoor said such cases reflect a “deeply diseased campus culture” where vulnerable students are targeted. According to the family, Nithin was mocked for his caste, skin colour, and financial background, and allegedly faced threats affecting his academic performance. Tharoor demanded a thorough criminal investigation and said suspending two faculty members was only a preliminary step.
Meanwhile, police in Kannur have launched a detailed probe, collecting digital evidence and recording statements from students, faculty, and family members. The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has also taken suo motu cognisance of the case and directed authorities to submit a report within a week. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with growing calls for justice and systemic reforms in educational institutions.