The mystery surrounding the death of a NEET student in Patna deepens with a bombshell development: the POCSO Act has been officially slapped onto the case. This move by the SIT underscores grave concerns of child sexual offense linked to the tragedy at Shambhu Girls Hostel.
Hailing from Jehanabad, the victim resided in the Munna Chak facility while preparing for the competitive medical entrance exam. Discovered in a semi-conscious state, her condition deteriorated rapidly en route to the hospital. Post-mortem hints and forensic prelims point to assault, with semen residues on personal items suggesting involvement of an 18-21-year-old male.
In a major push, DNA profiles from 15 persons of interest—hostel staff, peers, and visitors—have been dispatched for lab analysis. Matching these could pinpoint the culprit, reshaping the narrative from mere mishap to calculated crime.
Public outrage has propelled the issue to national forums. MP Pappu Yadav’s dramatic Parliament protest, complete with protest placards, calls for CBI intervention. He lambasts the probe as a cover-up for powerful lobbies, insisting smaller players bear the brunt while big fish slip away.
With POCSO’s invocation approved by courts, the SIT’s mandate intensifies. Bihar government faces mounting pressure amid cross-party blame games. Stakeholders await DNA outcomes, forensic validations, and subsequent arrests. This case tests the resolve of justice in protecting vulnerable students chasing dreams in urban hostels.
