Daijiworld Media Network - Pune

Pune, Mar 25: A first-year MBA student died after suffering an electric shock inside a student-run mess at the College of Agriculture Pune, sparking protests and raising serious concerns over safety standards on campus.

The deceased, identified as Chaitanya Kundalik Chavan, was a student of Agricultural Business Management (ABM). The tragic incident occurred on March 14 at the ‘Vidyarthi Sahakari Bhojanalaya’ (student cooperative mess).

According to reports, Chaitanya received a severe electric shock when he touched a water tap after pressing the button of a water filter. Students alleged that the equipment may have been live due to an electrical fault, pointing to negligence in maintenance and safety measures.

Chaitanya, a native of Ashti village in Beed district, came from a financially struggling family and had been studying in Pune for the past five years. His sudden death has left his family in deep grief.

Following the incident, students gathered on campus and launched a peaceful protest demanding justice and immediate corrective measures to prevent such mishaps in future.

The student organisation Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) also submitted a memorandum to the college authorities, seeking a detailed probe, examination of CCTV footage, and strict action against those responsible.

The college administration stated that an inquiry has been initiated and assured that necessary action will be taken. It also said certain expenses related to the incident are being borne by the institution.

Meanwhile, students have warned that their protest will continue until strict action is taken. Around 200 to 300 students are currently staging a sit-in protest within the campus.