25-07-2025
Court extends custody of suspended HoD by 14 days in suicide abetment case
Balasore: The court of sub-divisional judicial magistrate (SDJM) in Balasore on Thursday extended the judicial custody of the suspended head of department of a college by another 14 days in connection with the alleged abetment of suicide of a female student.
Bijay Kumar Dash, additional public prosecutor, said SDJM Kishor Kumar Nath passed the order following the completion of the suspended faculty member's initial 14-day custody period. He was arrested on July 12 amid a growing outcry over the death of the student, which triggered widespread protests and demands for justice.
"The court on Friday recorded the statements of three more individuals under Section 183 of BNSS, further adding to the growing body of evidence in the case," Dash said.
Student unions, civil society groups and politicians had called for strict action against those found guilty. The case has become a focal point of public discourse, highlighting concerns over campus safety and alleged academic harassment.
The 14-day judicial custody of the college principal — who was also arrested for his alleged role in the case — is set to expire on Sunday. Authorities are expected to seek an extension of his custody.
