Uttar Pradesh Student Dies by Self-Immolation After Alleged Humiliation Over Unpaid College Fees

Denied Exam Over Pending Fees

Rana, a second-year BA student at DAV PG College, had been struggling to pay his tuition fees. In a video recorded just hours before the incident, he said the college had refused to accept his examination form because he could only pay ₹1,700 of the ₹8,700 total fee.

He alleged that when he requested more time to clear the balance, college principal Pradeep Kumar insulted and manhandled him.

“The principal insulted me in front of everyone, saying this college is not a dharamshala,” Rana said in the video. “He pulled my hair, beat me, and called the police when I stood up for students who couldn’t pay.”

Named Principal and Police Before Death

In the same video, Rana claimed that three police officers also assaulted and humiliated him after being called by the college administration. He ended the recording saying that the principal and the officers would be responsible if anything happened to him.

Shortly after posting the video, Rana set himself on fire near the college campus. Locals rushed him to a nearby hospital and later to Meerut Medical College, where he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday morning.

Family Demands Justice

Rana’s family has filed a formal complaint, demanding immediate arrests of those named in his video. His father accused the college management of “destroying his son’s future and dignity,” and urged the state government to ensure justice.

Police have registered a case and initiated an inquiry into the allegations. “We are verifying the video and recording witness statements. Strict action will be taken if the charges are proven,” a senior officer said.

Public Anger and Student Protests

The incident has sparked student protests in Muzaffarnagar and nearby towns, with demonstrators accusing the administration of insensitivity toward poor students. Social media users have also demanded accountability and reforms in how educational institutions handle financial dues.

Activists say the case underscores the mental and emotional toll of financial stress on students, urging the government to strengthen scholarship programs and grievance mechanisms in state-run and private colleges.