A statewide hartal by Dalit organisations over the death of dental student Nithin Raj has disrupted normal life
April 28, 2026: A state-wide shutdown called by Dalit organisations brought parts of Kerala to a halt following the death of Nithin Raj, a 22-year-old BDS student in Kannur. Raj died on April 10 after allegedly facing caste-based harassment at his college, triggering protests and widespread anger. The hartal, backed by over 50 organisations, reflects growing demands for accountability and justice.
Protests were reported in several districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, with activists blocking roads and urging businesses to shut down. Authorities have registered a case against two faculty members under charges of abetment of suicide and provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. While organisers said essential services would remain unaffected, disruptions highlighted the intensity of public anger.
Calling the incident an “institutional murder,” protest groups have demanded ₹10 crore compensation for the family, strict punishment for the accused, and a High Court-monitored probe. The case has reignited concerns over caste discrimination in educational institutions, with activists stressing the need for systemic reforms to protect marginalised communities.