COMSO seeks independent judicial enquiry into death of Meghalaya nursing student at RIMS Imphal

Shillong, May 15: The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (COMSO) has appealed to the Governor of Manipur to institute an independent judicial enquiry into the alleged suicide of Abiel Salchiana Ch Marak at Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal.

Abiel Salchiana Ch Marak, a native of Rongram in West Garo Hills district, was found dead in her hostel room on Wednesday morning. She was a 4th semester student pursuing B.Sc. Nursing at the medical institute.

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In a letter to the Governor of Manipur on Thursday, COMSO expressed anguish and grave concern over the tragic demise of Abiel Salchiana Ch Marak. While the initial reports suspect it to be a case of suicide, COMSO said serious allegations have since emerged from multiple sources, including institutional negligence, psychological harassment, systemic failure, and potential foul play.

“The absence of a transparent and independent judicial inquiry has only intensified the grief, suspicion, and trauma experienced by students, parents, the Garo community, and the public at large,” it said.

“We therefore earnestly appeal to your esteemed office to kindly intervene and ensure that an independent judicial enquiry under a neutral and credible authority is immediately instituted to investigate the matter thoroughly. The enquiry must explore all possible causes leading to the student’s untimely death, including allegations of academic pressure, mental health neglect, ragging, discrimination, or institutional lapses,” it further said.

COMSO demanded that independent judicial enquiry be headed by a neutral judge or retired justice, with authority to summon witnesses, review institutional procedures, and submit a public report.

It also demanded protection and support for students, witnesses, and whistleblowers, including those willing to testify. At the same time, it sought accountability of RIMS administration, including temporary suspension of any officials or staff members found complicit until the enquiry concludes.

Additionally, it sought assurance of non-discrimination and security for tribal and minority students studying in Manipur, especially those from Meghalaya.

Besides it has sought implementation of immediate mental health safety protocols, anti-ragging safeguards, and internal redressal mechanisms for student grievances.

“Justice for Abiel Salchiana Ch Marak is not only a matter of legal necessity—it is a moral obligation that calls for collective reflection and remedial action,” it further stated.

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