The tragic death of a 17-year-old medical aspirant in Patna has escalated into a major investigation with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) taking charge of the case. Forensic examination has revealed disturbing evidence that points toward possible sexual assault, adding a grave dimension to this already sensitive matter.
Forensic Evidence Reveals Semen Traces
Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikey K Sharma disclosed on Wednesday that one of five clothing items sent for forensic analysis tested positive for semen traces. This crucial finding has significantly altered the trajectory of the investigation, suggesting the young student may have been subjected to sexual violence before her death.
The state government has formally handed over the case to the CBI for comprehensive investigation, reflecting the seriousness of the evidence uncovered so far. This development comes after initial reluctance from the victim's family to file a First Information Report, which prompted police to take suo motu cognizance based on hospital inputs.
Timeline of Events and Investigation Findings
The student was discovered unconscious in her Patna hostel room on January 6 and tragically passed away on January 11 while receiving treatment at a private hospital. According to SSP Sharma's detailed press conference statement, the investigation has pieced together a meticulous timeline of her final days.
Forensic analysis of the hostel's CCTV footage confirmed the recordings were authentic and untampered. The footage shows the student arriving at the hostel on January 5 accompanied by a friend. That evening, she left her room only twice, each time for approximately two minutes, before remaining inside. The following morning, when she failed to respond for an extended period, the warden, fellow students, and security personnel were forced to break open her door.
Digital and Physical Evidence Collection
Technical investigation revealed the student had been at her family home in Jehanabad from December 27 to January 5. During her return journey to Patna, she purchased Amitone Plus medication from a medical store near Arwal Mor. This purchase was verified through multiple sources:
- The victim's UPI transaction records
- Statements from the shopkeeper
- Initial accounts from family members
Investigators recovered both a personal diary and a cellphone from the student's room. Forensic examination of her phone revealed concerning internet searches for cyanide and sleeping pills conducted on December 24. Meanwhile, analysis of her diary has provided investigators with valuable insights into her mental state and personal challenges, which the CBI is now examining as part of their comprehensive probe.
Medical Treatment and Conflicting Reports
The student received medical care at a private hospital from January 6 to 10, during which her condition remained critical. The hospital's preliminary report attributed her death to an overdose of intoxicants, creating an initial narrative that has been complicated by subsequent forensic findings.
The Forensic Science Laboratory's discovery of semen on the student's undergarments has directly contradicted the hospital's initial assessment, prompting more rigorous investigation. Special Investigation Team and CBI officials are now conducting DNA profiling of potential suspects to establish connections with the forensic evidence.
Police Accountability and Family Allegations
In response to perceived investigative lapses, Patna police have taken disciplinary action against two officers found negligent in their duties. Ramkrishna Nagar Station House Officer Roshani Kumari has been suspended along with another officer as authorities work to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.
The victim's family has consistently alleged that their daughter was sexually assaulted and has accused authorities of attempting to cover up the incident. These allegations, combined with the emerging forensic evidence, have created significant public pressure for transparency and justice in this heartbreaking case.
As the CBI assumes control of the investigation, multiple forensic, digital, and testimonial evidence streams are being examined to reconstruct the events leading to the young medical aspirant's untimely death. The case continues to develop with new findings expected as the central agency deepens its probe into this tragic incident that has shaken the educational community in Patna.
