SHILLONG, May 16: The Meghalaya Pradesh Youth Congress (MPYC) has called for an independent inquiry into the alleged suicide of Abiel Salchiana Ch. Marak, a nursing student from Meghalaya, who was found dead at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal. The request was formally made in a letter to the Governor of Manipur.
Abiel, a 4th-semester B.Sc. Nursing student hailing from the Garo Hills, was discovered dead in her hostel room at RIMS on the morning of May 14. Her sudden death has sparked concern and sorrow across communities, particularly among students from tribal and minority backgrounds studying outside their home states.
In the letter, MPYC expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and highlighted the growing anxiety among families and communities regarding the safety and welfare of students from marginalized groups. The youth organization stressed the need for transparency and urgency in addressing possible allegations of harassment, discrimination, and institutional negligence that may have played a role in the student’s death.
MPYC also extended its full support to the Garo Students’ Union (GSU), aligning with their demand for truth and justice. MPYC President Timjim K. Momin stated in the letter, “We humbly appeal for your intervention to ensure that an independent, impartial, and time-bound inquiry is conducted to uncover the truth behind Abiel Salchiana Ch. Marak’s death.”
In addition to calling for an inquiry, the MPYC urged the implementation of adequate protective and welfare measures for students from other states—particularly those from marginalized communities—who are pursuing their education in Manipur.
