Mumbai A tragic incident in Kalyan, Maharashtra has shocked the people. Arnav Jitendra Khaire, a 19-year-old college student, took his own life after being attacked for speaking Hindi in a local train. This matter is intensifying the debate on Marathi-Hindi language tension not only in the city but in the entire state.

What happened in the local train?

On the morning of 18 November, Arnav boarded the Ambernath-Kalyan local train to go to his college, Kelkar College, Mulund. He had a minor argument with some passengers. According to her father, 4-5 people in the train harassed and attacked her for allegedly not speaking Marathi. Out of fear, Arnav got down at Thane station and returned to Mulund by another train before going home.

What did Arnav tell his father?

After reaching home, Arnav spoke to his father on phone in the afternoon and shared his fear and restlessness. He told that he was feeling very upset. The father tried to reassure her, but noticed that the fear and tension in her voice were evident.

Is this suicide a result of language dispute?

When Arnav's father, Jitendra Khaire, returned home in the evening, he found the door locked from inside. When the door was broken with the help of neighbours, they found Arnav hanging inside with his dupatta. He was taken to Rukminibai Hospital, where doctors declared him dead at 9:05 pm. Arnav's father told the police that his son took this step due to language dispute and fear of fighting and mental stress.

What did the police say?

Kolsewadi police have registered an accidental death report and started investigating the case. Railway Police was also informed and efforts are underway to obtain CCTV footage. Local people are demanding an independent investigation into the alleged attack on the train.

Is Marathi-Hindi tension increasing in Maharashtra?

In recent months, many such incidents have come to light where disputes arose over language. Arnav's death has sparked a new debate on this issue and increased concern among the people.

Disclaimer: Suicide is not the solution to any problem. If you are also having thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself, then you can immediately take help from family, friends and psychiatrist. Apart from this, you can also ask for help by calling these helpline numbers. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata). Spandan (Madhya Pradesh) 9630899002, 7389366696, Sanjeevani: 0761-2626622, TeleMANAS 1-8008914416/14416, Jeevan Aadhar: 1800-233-1250.

Vandrewala Foundation for Mental Health: 9999666555, ISS iCall: 022-25521111, in case of mental stress, you can get help at home by contacting helpline number 14416 and 1800 8914416 for counselling.