PhD scholar dies of electrocution on university campus; protest ensues

CHANDIGARH: A Research student died of electrocution on the Punjab University campus. Jyoti (28), a researcher in the microbiology department, died in the shocking incident. Following the incident, the students protested for an hour on the campus.

The incident happened on Tuesday. Jyoti, a native of Rewari in Haryana, was on her way to her hostel when the accident took place.

The main road was waterlogged due to rain. Jyoti was walking on the footpath and was electrocuted by an electric box placed at the junction. She was rushed to the hospital, but her life could not be saved.

After the news broke, hundreds of students protested in front of the university vice-chancellor's office. They demanded action against those who had failed to provide security for the student and compensation.

Following a discussion between the authorities and family members, it was decided to pay Rs 16 lakh and to give a job as an electrician to Jyothi's brother, who had completed an ITI (Electrical) at the university. Jyothi, who was from a farming family, helped her parents through the fellowship she received for research. The police started an investigation. Authorities have said that action will be taken against the culprits.