PhD Student Dies by Suicide in Pune; Guide Arrested for Alleged Molestation
Incident Overview
A 30-year-old PhD student in Pune has died by suicide, allegedly as a result of molestation and mental harassment by her academic guide. The tragic incident took place at her residence in the Chinchwad area on Saturday.
The accused, identified as Dr. A Benniamin, is a senior scientist and head of the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) office located in Pune’s Koregaon Park. Following the student’s death, local authorities arrested him based on a complaint lodged by the victim’s father.
Details of the Case
The police reported that the student left behind a suicide note in which she explicitly named Dr. Benniamin as the reason for her extreme decision. According to the information provided in the First Information Report (FIR), the alleged harassment and misconduct by her guide had been ongoing since August 2025.
The FIR was registered at the local police station following the father’s complaint about the circumstances surrounding his daughter’s death. The contents of the note and the circumstances leading to her death are currently under investigation.
Legal Proceedings
Dr. Benniamin has been charged under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Specifically, he faces allegations under section 108, which pertains to the abetment of suicide, and section 74, related to assault or criminal force with the intent to outrage the modesty of a woman.
According to Police Inspector Bhojraj Misal, Dr. Benniamin was presented before a court on Sunday. The court has remanded him in police custody until April 15, allowing authorities to conduct further investigations into the allegations.
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