BITS Pilani student found dead in south Goa hostel; authorities say death not due to suicide

NEW DELHI: The 20-year-old BITS Pilani student who was found dead in his hostel room on the institution's campus in south Goa was facing "mental health neglect", an official said on Friday citing the post mortem report. Rishi Nair was found dead in his hostel room at around 10.45 am on Thursday after the door was forced open by authorities when he did not respond to calls on his mobile phone, as per police.

"The post mortem has revealed he was suffering from mental health neglect. He died in his sleep," a senior official from South Goa District Hospital told PTI. His death was not due to suicide, and a probe is underway to find out the exact cause, Superintendent of Police (South) Tikam Singh Verma said. This is the fifth instance of a student dying in the hostel of BITS Pilani in south Goa since December last year, he said.

Three of five deaths were suicides

"Of the five deaths, three were due to suicide. Police held a meeting with the BITS Pilani management to discuss the issue. The management has assured that all precautionary measures will be taken to avoid such incidents," the SP said. On Thursday, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant told reporters a committee has been formed under the collector to probe these incidents. "Such incidents are unfortunate and should not reoccur. The state government will take further steps after receiving the report of the collector," the CM had said.

If you know someone – friend or family member – at risk of suicide, please reach out to them. Those in distress or having suicidal thoughts or tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling 9820466726 or visiting AASRA’s official website or can call iCALL on 9152987821. Here are some more helpline numbers of suicide prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.