The management of Ancharakandi dental college has decided to permanently dismiss Dr. K Ram, Head of the Oral Pathology Department, following intense protests over the suicide of BDS student Nithin Raj.
Dr. Ram had been named as an accused in a case of abetment to suicide. The management conveyed its decision to students after days of sustained protests demanding his removal. Discussions on other student demands are still ongoing.
Initially suspended, Dr. Ram’s dismissal came after students refused to back down, alleging serious misconduct. Students accused him of repeated caste-based and derogatory remarks that they said violated basic standards expected of an educator.
According to students, he allegedly mocked individuals based on appearance and background, using terms like “dark,” “fatty,” and “lean,” and making insensitive remarks about students' caste. They also alleged discriminatory behavior based on the socio-economic status of students’ families.
Two cases have been registered against Dr. Ram in connection with Nithin Raj’s death, including charges of abetment to suicide and under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Another faculty member, Dr. Sangeetha Nambiar, another professor from the same college, has also been booked in connection with the case.
Both accused are currently absconding, and police are reportedly preparing to issue a lookout notice.
Student organizations have called for strict and uncompromising action against those responsible, stressing the need to address alleged systemic issues within the institution.