In October 2016, Najeeb Ahmed, a student studying biotechnology at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi, disappeared without a trace. His last night on campus involved a scuffle with members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a right-wing student organization, leading to allegations against the group. Following his disappearance, India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took over the case but has now closed it, claiming all leads have been exhausted, much to the dismay of Najeeb's family.
Najeeb was last seen using his phone and laptop on the morning he went missing, and his belongings were found untouched in his hostel room. On that fateful night, after sustaining injuries from the altercation, he reportedly was denied medical assistance due to the absence of a police complaint. His mother, Fatima Nafees, has waged a legal battle since his disappearance, accusing authorities of mishandling the investigation.
A Delhi court recently shut the case, noting that while the CBI had examined numerous witnesses and resources, there was no substantial evidence linking the altercation to Najeeb's vanishing. This decision has sparked frustration among activists and his family, who believe proper justice has not been served. The investigation's termination has not deterred Ms. Nafees, who continues to advocate for her son's case and highlights perceived biases tied to his religion.
Every year on October 15, the anniversary of Najeeb’s disappearance, she participates in candle marches at JNU, keeping the hope alive that her son will one day be found. As the mystery of Najeeb Ahmed hangs unresolved, his family vows to not give up in their fight for the truth.
