The BITS Pilani Goa campus has been struck by yet another tragedy following the sudden death of 19-year-old student Rishi Nair. His passing on Thursday, September 4, 2025, marks the fifth student death on campus in less than a year, prompting a formal investigation by the Goa government.
What Happened
Rishi Nair, a second-year Physics student originally from Bengaluru, was discovered lifeless in his hostel room after failing to respond to several phone calls. His parents, along with university officials, forcibly opened his door and found him motionless on his bed. The cause of his death is still under investigation, with authorities looking into the possibility of suicide or a fatal overdose. Reports indicate that Nair had been battling depression following the suicide of his girlfriend earlier in the year.
Who Was Rishi Nair?
Rishi was a dedicated student who had transferred to the BITS Pilani Goa campus from the BITS Hyderabad campus earlier in the year. Known for his academic pursuits, Rishi’s tragic passing has left his friends, family, and the entire campus community in deep shock. His struggles with depression, which followed the traumatic loss of his girlfriend, were known to his loved ones. He had been undergoing treatment and was prescribed anti-depressant medication to cope with his condition.
Background or Timeline
Rishi’s death comes amid a troubling pattern of tragedies on the BITS Pilani Goa campus, raising serious concerns about student welfare. Since December 2024, four other students have tragically passed away, including Om Priyan Singh, Atharv Desai, Krishna Kasera, and Kushagra Jain, with many of the deaths linked to mental health challenges. This alarming trend has sparked widespread concern about the adequacy of mental health support for students at the university.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The BITS Pilani community, including students, faculty, and staff, has expressed deep sorrow over Rishi’s passing. Vigils have been held in his memory, and social media has been flooded with messages of condolence and calls for better mental health services on campus. Many students are urging the administration to take immediate action to address the growing mental health crisis among students.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
The Goa Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, has announced the formation of a high-level committee to investigate the causes behind the deaths at BITS Pilani Goa. The committee will also focus on improving mental health resources for students. BITS Pilani has confirmed Nair’s death and acknowledged his ongoing treatment for a personal health challenge, assuring full cooperation with the police investigation. The South Goa Superintendent of Police has confirmed there is no evidence of a drug-related connection to any of the deaths.
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This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
