Kolkata shocker: Jadavpur University student dies of drowning in campus lake

Kolkata: A third-year English honours student of Jadavpur University was found dead in a campus pond on Thursday night, sparking shock, anger and renewed questions over student safety at the prestigious institution.

The student, identified as Anamika Mondal, was discovered around 10.20 pm near the pond beside Gate No. 4, close to the Arts Faculty Students’ Union room. At the time, a cultural programme organised by the university’s drama club was underway, featuring a performance by folk singer Gour Das Baul and his troupe.

Fellow students noticed her body floating in the water and immediately pulled her out before rushing her to KPC Hospital. Doctors declared her dead on arrival. The body has since been sent for a post-mortem to ascertain the exact cause of death, though initial suspicion points to drowning.

The incident has triggered protests on campus and a political blame game. The Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) criticised the authorities for allowing events to continue late into the night and demanded stricter safety protocols, including CCTV surveillance across the grounds and the setting up of a permanent police outpost.

“We want to know why security lapses continue despite repeated incidents. The administration cannot remain silent when such tragedies occur,” a TMCP spokesperson said.

However, SFI leaders have dismissed the charges as political posturing, calling instead for a thorough investigation and student-friendly safety reforms.

This is not the first time JU has faced questions over campus safety. In 2023, a first-year student died after falling from a hostel balcony in an incident linked to ragging. The fresh tragedy has reignited concerns over whether adequate measures have been put in place since then.

Police have begun a probe and said all angles, including possible foul play, are being examined.