Justice for Sahastranshu: NALSAR Orders Probe into Campus Medical Lapses

(By Syed Ali Taher Abedi)

Questions Raised Over Medical Facilities and Response Time

Hyderabad, September 24: NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, has come under the scanner after the sudden death of fifth-year BA LLB (Hons) student Sahastranshu Pandey on campus, prompting the university to announce a formal probe into alleged lapses in medical care and emergency response.

According to preliminary information, Pandey was in his hostel room watching a movie when he suddenly collapsed and lost consciousness. Hostel mates and fellow students rushed to seek immediate medical help, but the night-duty doctor on campus allegedly failed to provide effective assistance.

In a press release issued by the university, authorities confirmed that there is no connection between Pandey’s death and the Inam Day celebrations held on September 20. The release, however, acknowledged the need for an internal inquiry to examine whether systemic gaps contributed to the tragedy.

Alleged Medical Negligence and Delay

Students and eyewitnesses have claimed that the night-duty doctor present at the campus health centre was unable to administer oxygen to the unconscious student. Reports further suggest that the oxygen facility in the university ambulance was either non-functional or grossly inadequate, raising questions about the preparedness of the institution’s health infrastructure.

Pandey was eventually transported to a nearby hospital where doctors attempted resuscitation and followed all emergency protocols. Despite their efforts, he was declared “brought dead” upon arrival. Shockingly, students allege that the Vice-Chancellor and hostel warden reached the hospital only after doctors had confirmed his death, further fueling resentment on campus.

Administration Responds

Following the incident, the university immediately informed local police, and a formal report is expected. The Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court, who serves as the ex-officio Chancellor of NALSAR, has been apprised of the situation.

University authorities have assured that all lapses in the primary health centre and ambulance services will be addressed on a priority basis to prevent such incidents in the future.

Students Demand Accountability

While the administration has promised a fair probe, students are calling for a transparent investigation and systemic reforms to ensure proper medical facilities, trained personnel, and rapid emergency response on campus. The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with alumni and legal professionals urging the university to set higher standards of care for its residential student community.

The inquiry report is expected to shed light on whether timely and competent intervention could have altered the tragic outcome.