‘Nimisha was an adult’: Assam CM urges caution, says people must learn from such incidents

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on September 28 said investigators would examine Nimisha Thakuria's social media posts, phone calls and other available evidence as part of the probe into the Gauhati University student's death.

Speaking about the case, Sarma said Nimisha was from his Assembly constituency and that investigators would consider her social media activity, details of her phone calls and her visit to the residence of accused Ashiq Ali, along with the reactions and statements of her parents following the incident.

“All will be taken into consideration and the investigation will go forward. I will also follow up with the case so that the probe is conducted properly,” Sarma said.

The chief minister was also asked whether the case could be considered a “love jihad” incident.

Responding to the question, Sarma said people should be cautious and learn from such incidents. He noted that Nimisha was an adult and said individuals should be aware of their choices and conduct.

Nimisha, a Sociology student at Gauhati University, was found unconscious at a homestay in Guwahati's Dharapur-Garal area on September 26. She was subsequently taken to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared her dead.

Ashiq Ali, who was staying with her at the homestay, has been taken into police custody. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Nimisha's death, while forensic and post-mortem findings are awaited.

Police have not established the circumstances of her death or confirmed allegations circulating on social media.