On November 23, 2025, two first‑year nursing students from Kerala — Sterin Elza Shaji (19) and Justin Joseph (20) — tragically died after being hit by the Bengaluru–Belagavi Vande Bharat Express near Chikkabanavara Railway Station in Bengaluru. Police are investigating whether it was an accident or a possible suicide.
Details About The Incident:
- Date & time: November 23, 2025, around 2:35 p.m.
- Location: Near Chikkabanavara Railway Station, on the outskirts of Bengaluru.
- Train involved: The Belagavi‑bound Vande Bharat Express.
- Victims:
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- Sterin Elza Shaji, 19
- Justin Joseph, 20 Both were first‑year BSc nursing students at Sapthagiri College, originally from Pathanamthitta district in Kerala. They lived in a nearby paying guest facility.
CCTV & Surveillance Analysis:
- Police response: Government Railway Police (Karnataka) confirmed the deaths and began a probe.
- Cause unclear: Authorities are checking CCTV footage and speaking with family and friends to determine if it was an accident or suicide.
- Legal step: A case has been registered under “Unnatural Death Report” (UDR) for further inquiry.
Impact & Reactions:
- Shock in community: The incident has deeply affected fellow students and residents in the area.
- Safety concerns: It highlights the risks of crossing railway tracks and the need for stricter awareness campaigns.
Next steps: Police are expected to release more details once the investigation concludes.
