Daijiworld Media Network - Pilani

Pilani, Sep 7: Police investigating five recent student deaths at BITS Pilani’s Goa campus have ruled out foul play and narcotics, with the latest autopsy confirming aspiration pneumonitis and severe gastritis as the cause of death. South Goa SP Tikam Singh Verma said the most recent victim, Rishi Nair, had been under clinical care and vomited in his sleep. “So far, no narcotics have been detected in any of the five cases. Two were suicides, and three were health-related deaths,” he added.

The clustering of deaths around semester exams, involving mostly second and third-year students pursuing dual-degree programmes, has sparked speculation about academic stress. BITS Pilani, however, dismissed systemic pressure, describing its flexible academic structure that allows students to complete courses early or extend timelines.

Medical experts have pointed to gaps in health care. Dr Madhu Ghodkirekar, HOD of Forensic Medicine at South Goa District Hospital, said, “Three of the five deaths are linked to health neglect. The latest student was on anti-depression medication and died after choking on vomit in sleep.”

The institute has strengthened campus controls, with police deployed and stricter food delivery measures in place. BITS has also introduced support systems, including a ‘mental health buddies’ programme initiated in August, aimed at addressing students’ well-being.

Authorities continue to probe each case individually, while the campus administration emphasizes student safety as a priority.