Patna: Students from Patna University staged a protest march Today demanding a CBI inquiry and strict government action following the alleged rape and death of a NEET aspirant at a girls’ hostel in Bihar’s capital.
Carrying placards reading “Save the Daughter” and “Justice for NEET Girl”, hundreds of students marched from Magadh Mahila College to Kargil Chowk. A large banner at the protest site declared: “Smash Patriarchy, Justice for NEET Girl.”
The protest was triggered by the death of a student found in critical condition at Shambhu Girls’ Hostel earlier this month. She later died during treatment, prompting widespread outrage and accusations of institutional negligence. Student leaders said the case reflected a deeper failure to ensure women’s safety in educational spaces.
“We are not asking for sympathy. We are asking for accountability,” one protesting student said. “If this can happen in a hostel in the state capital, what message does it send to girls preparing for competitive exams?”
Police said a special investigation team (SIT) was examining digital and forensic evidence, including data recovered from the student’s mobile phone. Officials confirmed that DNA samples had been collected from 25 people, including hostel staff, acquaintances and individuals who assisted the student before she was taken to hospital. DNA reports are expected later this week.
Investigators are also reconstructing the student’s movements over an 11-day period, analysing mobile tower locations, CCTV footage and call records. Police said Snapchat data and search history from the student’s phone were also being examined as part of the probe.
Senior officials said they were under pressure to conclude the investigation before the upcoming assembly session, amid mounting political criticism and public anger.
However, the victim’s family has alleged harassment in the name of investigation, claiming that relatives and helpers were repeatedly questioned and subjected to DNA testing without sensitivity. “We are not against the investigation,” a family member said, “but there must be dignity and understanding.”
Opposition parties have accused the state government of delays and early lapses in the investigation, including failure to immediately seal the crime scene and delays in invoking laws applicable to crimes against minors. The ruling coalition has rejected the allegations, counter-attacking opposition leaders over past governance failures.
Students at Kargil Chowk vowed to continue their protest until an independent inquiry is announced. “This is not just about one girl,” a student protester said. “This is about whether women in this state can feel safe at all.”
