Thiruvananthapuram, 28 April (H.S.):A dawn-to-dusk statewide bandh has been called in Kerala on Tuesday by a coalition of 52 Dalit and Adivasi organisations, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible for the death of BDS student Nithin Raj at Azhikode Dental College.

The bandh, observed from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., is being coordinated by an action council representing various community groups. Organisers have appealed for peaceful participation, stating that vehicles will not be forcibly stopped and urging the public to cooperate voluntarily.

The protestors have put forward a series of demands, including the immediate arrest of faculty members allegedly responsible for the student’s death, implementation of the Rohith Vemula Act to address caste-based discrimination in educational institutions, and a compensation of ₹10 crore for Nithin Raj’s family. They have also called for the cancellation of the college’s affiliation, alleging serious lapses in accountability.

Meanwhile, the Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi (traders’ body) has distanced itself from the bandh, stating that there is no need for such a shutdown as the investigation is progressing in the right direction. The organisation pointed out that a court has already rejected the anticipatory bail plea of the first accused in the case, indicating that due legal process is underway.

The traders’ body has also announced that shops and commercial establishments across the state will remain open and function as usual, despite the bandh call.

The death of Nithin Raj has sparked widespread outrage across Kerala, with student groups and civil society organisations demanding justice and stronger safeguards against discrimination in academic institutions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman