“Why This Face?”: Dental Student in Bengaluru Suicide Case
Bengaluru dental student suicide has sparked widespread concern after the family of a 23-year-old dental student alleged prolonged harassment linked to her appearance and classroom treatment. The case has drawn attention to mental health pressures in medical education and the impact of discrimination on young professionals.
What happened
The student, Yashaswini B, was found dead in her bedroom earlier this month. She was studying at Oxford Dental College, located on Hosur Road in Bengaluru. Initially, police registered an unnatural death case following a complaint by her mother, G Pramila.
However, days later, Pramila filed a fresh complaint, alleging that her daughter had been subjected to continuous humiliation by six lecturers over the past year. Based on this, the police registered a new case for abetment to suicide under BNS Section 108. A zero FIR was first filed by the Suryanagar Police and later transferred to the Bommanahalli Police.
Allegations of repeated humiliation
According to the complaint, the lecturers named in the FIR allegedly targeted Yashaswini for minor issues such as arriving a few minutes late to class and her choice of clothing. Over time, the alleged remarks reportedly became more personal and hurtful.
Most distressing, the family claims that Yashaswini was mocked for her skin colour and questioned about her suitability to become a doctor. One alleged remark asked why she wanted to pursue medicine “with this face.” The Bengaluru dental student suicide case has therefore raised serious questions about colourism and bullying within professional colleges.
Academic impact and emotional distress
Pramila stated that when her daughter did not react to the comments, the lecturers allegedly penalised her with lower seminar marks. Yashaswini reportedly shared her anxiety and sadness with her mother on multiple occasions, describing the environment as emotionally draining.
A day before her death, Yashaswini suffered eye pain and missed classes. When she returned the following day, the complaint alleges that she was scolded and humiliated in front of classmates. The lecturers also reportedly questioned her about the medication she had taken.
Suicide note under examination
Yashaswini left behind a suicide note stating that she alone was responsible for her death and that no one else should be blamed. The note has been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory to confirm whether the handwriting is hers.
Despite the note, her mother maintains that sustained emotional abuse played a major role. She believes the repeated insults and public shaming severely affected her daughter’s mental health.
Why this case matters
The Bengaluru dental student suicide has resonated widely because it highlights the hidden mental health struggles faced by medical and dental students. Experts note that persistent humiliation, especially related to physical appearance or identity, can significantly increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and self-harm.
This case also underscores the need for stronger anti-harassment policies, confidential grievance mechanisms, and mental health support systems within medical institutions.
Conclusion
As investigations continue, the case has reignited public discussion on student well-being, respectful teaching practices, and zero tolerance for discrimination in healthcare education. Families, educators, and policymakers alike are being urged to ensure that campuses remain safe, supportive spaces where future doctors are trained with dignity, empathy, and respect.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 17 January 2026
- 11:00
