RAJKOT, Gujarat | March 14: A 25-year-old MBBS intern at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rajkot died by suicide after allegedly jumping in front of a train near the institute campus on March 14, according to police officials. Authorities recovered a note from the scene in which the doctor reportedly alleged that he had been assaulted by classmates.
The deceased was identified as Ratankumar Meghwal, a native of Jaisalmer district in Rajasthan. He was completing his internship at AIIMS Rajkot after graduating from the institute’s MBBS program.
According to the police, Meghwal’s body was found on railway tracks between Ghanteshwar and Para Pipaliya near Rajkot early in the morning. Gandhigram police received information about the incident at around 5:30 a.m. Officials said he had apparently jumped in front of a moving train.
During the investigation, police recovered several personal belongings from the site, including the intern’s laptop, two mobile phones, identity card, and some documents related to his medical work. Police also recovered a suicide note from the scene.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 2) Rakesh Desai said the note mentioned that the intern had allegedly been assaulted by some classmates. Police said they are examining the contents of the note and verifying the claims as part of the investigation.
Preliminary reports indicate that the intern had earlier faced emotional distress. Police said he had attempted suicide at the same railway location on January 27, but authorities intervened at that time and prevented the incident. Following that episode, his family took him to Rajasthan, where he reportedly received psychiatric counselling and treatment.
After spending time at home, Meghwal returned to Rajkot to continue his internship duties at AIIMS. According to reports, he had resumed work at the institute shortly before the incident.
Police officials said investigators are questioning classmates, hostel residents, and faculty members to understand the circumstances leading to the death. Electronic devices recovered from the site are also being examined for further information.
Authorities confirmed that a postmortem examination has been conducted. Meghwal’s family members were informed about the incident and travelled from Rajasthan to Rajkot.
The police have registered a case and started an investigation into the allegations mentioned in the note and other possible factors linked to the incident. Officials said further details will emerge after the inquiry and forensic examination of the recovered materials are completed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, help is available. In India, you can contact the Kiran Mental Health Rehabilitation Helpline at 1800-599-0019 or AASRA at +91-22-27546669 for confidential support.
(Rh/MSM)