Indian-origin medical student in the United States died by suicide. (Representational Photo)
The family of a 24-year-old Indian-origin medical student in the United States who died by suicide after facing academic disciplinary action has called for a legal review and changes in institutional policies.
Vaibhav Duggal died in July last year while he was in his third year at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Centre in El Paso, Texas. His death came after he was undergoing a disciplinary process at the university.
Family raises concerns over process
Duggal’s family and supporters have questioned the way the disciplinary proceedings were conducted. They have said the process was not clear and did not follow proper due process. They have also raised concerns about the lack of adequate mental health support for students undergoing such proceedings.
The family believes the situation caused severe stress and contributed to his death.
“This effort seeks accountability, independent review, and reform to ensure no other student is placed in similar circumstances without adequate safeguards or support,” the family said in a statement as part of an advocacy campaign.
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Calls for policy reforms
The case has drawn attention to how universities in the US handle disciplinary matters, especially in high-pressure professional courses such as medicine. Advocacy groups have called for reforms, including clearer due-process protections, trauma-informed disciplinary systems, and stronger mental health support within institutions.
They have said universities should ensure that students facing disciplinary action are given proper support and transparent procedures.
The university has earlier said it cannot comment on individual student matters due to privacy protections under US federal law. It has cited these rules in response to queries related to the case.
The incident has led to wider discussions on student welfare, accountability, and the need for safeguards in academic institutions.
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Indian-origin medical student in the United States died by suicide. (Representational Photo) 
