Was It Preventable? No CCTV, No Clarity’, Sneha Debnath's Family Questions Delhi Police Accountability

Sneha Debnath, 19 years old and a mathematics student at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, Delhi University, went missing on the morning of July 7.   Originally from Sabroom, Tripura, she communicated with her mother at 05:56 AM to let her know she was heading to Sarai Rohilla Railway Station with a friend, called Pitunia. By 08:45 in the morning, her phone was switched off, and Pitunia later confirmed that they did not meet that morning.

Last Location: Signature Bridge

After the family arrived in Delhi and reported her missing, they were able to work back through the movements of her last cab driver, who confirmed dropping her off at Signature Bridge, a known location for suicide cases. Upon searching Sneha's PG room, a handwritten note was found, indicating suicidal intent, in which she condemned herself for feeling like a burden and a failure.

Six days before her remains were discovered

It took six days to conduct searches of the area, including the added resources of search teams from Delhi Police and NDRF. Finally, on July 13th, Sneha's remains were found around the Geeta Colony Flyover of the Yamuna River, roughly 10km downstream from the Signature Bridge. Family members, including her father, confirmed her identity.

Family's Challenging Questions

The family of Sneha Debnath has criticized the Delhi Police's negligent actions. "There are more than 60 cameras on the Signature Bridge, and none were working," a family member said. This delay in acknowledging and confirming her movement probably inhibited timely action on her case.

Jurisdictional Confusion Compounded Chaos

The family also pointed out that the bridge falls under different police jurisdictions, which complicated and caused delays in initial action and coordination in the first couple of hours. "Maybe if they had been more prompt or if their systems were in place, things might have been different," said the father.

Demanding Action & Systemic Change

The family is now demanding an investigation, to reactivate the CCTV cameras and define jurisdiction for public spaces. The family also underscored the need for better mental health support for students living away from family.

A Wake-Up Call For Law Enforcement in Delhi?

The tragic death of Sneha Debnath has exposed major deficiencies within surveillance and response in the city. And it's important for the Delhi Police to face these questions being raised by the public, before more lives are lost to inaction.