On July 18, 2025, Jyoti Sharma, a 21-year-old second-year BDS student at Sharda University in Greater Noida, tragically died by suicide in her hostel room, allegedly due to sustained mental harassment by two faculty members. A suicide note recovered by the Knowledge Park Police named college staff as responsible for continuous intimidation and false allegations that contributed to her distress.
Following the incident, the university administration has initiated an internal inquiry, and the police have arrested the accused faculty members as part of an ongoing investigation. The incident has ignited protests on campus, shining a harsh spotlight on student safety, mental health support, and institutional accountability.
A Tragic Loss Highlights Harassment Concerns at Sharda University
Jyoti Sharma, originally from Gurugram, was found hanging in the Mandela Girls Hostel on the 12th floor late on the night of July 18. The suicide note she left exposed the mental harassment she endured — including accusations of signing fraudulent documents and repeated humiliation by her professors.
The Knowledge Park Police officially registered a case and took swift action, arresting both faculty members mentioned and launching a detailed probe. Additional Deputy Commissioner Sudhir Kumar stated, “This is a grave matter of mental harassment and abuse of power.
The accused have been taken into custody and will face legal consequences.” Meanwhile, fellow students have mobilised protests on campus, demanding justice for Jyoti and stronger safeguards against harassment in academic institutions.
University Response and Broader Context of Student Welfare
In response to the tragedy, Sharda University Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr) Sitaram Khara announced the constitution of an internal committee comprising senior faculty and legal experts to investigate the allegations and recommend punitive action.
The university spokesman expressed deep sorrow over Jyoti’s death and reiterated a commitment to child safety and zero tolerance for harassment. Police efforts have included forensic analysis and ongoing dialogue with Jyoti’s family to ensure transparency.
The incident underscores wider issues surrounding mental health support in India’s educational institutions, where students often encounter academic pressure, bullying, and inadequate counselling resources. This case parallels a rising trend of student suicides linked to harassment and stress, prompting calls from activists and policymakers for systemic reform.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian mourns the devastating loss of Jyoti Sharma and recognises the urgent need for educational institutions to foster environments rooted in compassion, respect, and robust support systems. No student should face intimidation or psychological torture in spaces dedicated to learning and growth.
Mental harassment is not a private matter but a societal concern requiring institutional accountability and legal action. Universities must prioritise accessible mental health services, confidential grievance redressal mechanisms, and continuous training for faculty and staff in ethical conduct and sensitivity.
