Sperm DNA, CCTV, Google Location — Yet the Culprit Remains at Large in Patna Girls’ Hostel Case

Patna:
Despite crucial forensic and digital evidence, the mystery surrounding the death of a NEET aspirant at Shambhu Girls’ Hostel in Patna continues to deepen, with the prime accused still evading arrest.

The case took a dramatic turn after the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) confirmed the presence of sperm traces on the victim’s clothes, strengthening suspicions of sexual assault and triggering widespread outrage.

In response to the seriousness of the case, Patna Police has expanded the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to 50 members, including senior IPS officers and experts from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Six Suspects Detained, Intensive Questioning Underway

Police have taken six individuals into custody, all reportedly close associates of hostel owner Manish Ranjan (Manish Chandravanshi) and hostel operator Neelam Agrawal.

A police team also conducted a raid at Manish Ranjan’s ancestral home in Jehanabad, where family members and neighbours were questioned to verify his whereabouts on the night of the incident. Several documents seized during the operation are now under forensic examination.

Over 40 DNA Samples Collected

Investigators have so far collected around 40 DNA samples, including those of hostel staff, the owner’s relatives and individuals who were in contact with the student in recent days.

The primary focus of the investigation is to identify whose DNA matches the sperm sample recovered from the victim’s clothing — a key breakthrough expected to determine the perpetrator’s identity.

Case Direction Changed After FSL Report

Initially treated as a case of suspected suicide or unnatural death, the investigation shifted decisively after the FSL findings confirmed sexual assault.

Police are now awaiting the viscera examination report and a second medical opinion from AIIMS, which are expected to clarify the exact cause and time of death.

Digital Evidence Under Microscopic Scan

Alongside physical evidence, investigators are relying heavily on technology-based clues.
CCTV footage from inside and outside the hostel is being scrutinized to detect any unusual movement or possible entry of an outsider on the night of the incident.

Additionally, Google location history, mobile call records and tower dump data of suspects are being analyzed to reconstruct timelines and verify alibis.

Hostel operator Neelam Agrawal and her son Ashu Agrawal have been questioned repeatedly to address contradictions in their statements.

Pressure Mounts as Public Outrage Grows

With each passing day, pressure is mounting on the police as public anger grows over the delay in arresting the accused in a case involving a young medical aspirant.

Senior officials maintain that the investigation is progressing “scientifically and transparently,” and assure that no one involved — regardless of influence — will be spared.

As forensic reports and digital matches are awaited, the entire state watches closely, hoping justice will not be delayed for the student whose dreams were tragically cut short.