The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (COMSO) has called upon the Governor of Manipur and Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla to institute an independent judicial enquiry into the recent death of Abiel Salchiana Ch Marak, a nursing student from Meghalaya, found dead inside her hostel room within the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) campus in Imphal.
Abiel, a native of Rongram in West Garo Hills district, was a fourth-semester B.Sc. Nursing student. Her lifeless body was discovered on the morning of May 14 in what was initially reported as a suspected suicide. However, COMSO has raised serious concerns regarding the circumstances of her death, pointing to potential institutional negligence, psychological harassment, and the possibility of foul play.
In a letter submitted on May 15, COMSO urged the Governor and the Home Secretary to ensure that a neutral and independent judicial inquiry is launched to thoroughly investigate all possible causes of the student’s untimely demise. The organisation emphasized that the probe must address allegations of academic pressure, mental health neglect, ragging, discrimination, or any systemic lapses that may have contributed to the tragedy.
“The absence of a transparent investigation has deepened the grief and suspicion not only among students but also within the Garo community and the general public,” COMSO stated in its letter.
The organisation demanded that:
- The inquiry be headed by a retired judge or a neutral authority empowered to summon witnesses and review institutional procedures;
- Temporary suspension of any RIMS officials found prima facie responsible until the probe concludes;
- Protection and support for students, whistleblowers, and witnesses;
- Immediate implementation of mental health protocols, anti-ragging measures, and stronger internal redressal mechanisms.
COMSO also sought assurances for the safety and dignity of tribal and minority students studying in Manipur, particularly those from Meghalaya.
“Justice for Abiel Salchiana Ch Marak is not only a legal necessity but a moral responsibility,” the statement concluded.
