Tragic End to the Search for Sneha Debnath: Body of Missing Tripura Student Recovered from Yamuna River
Tripura Girl Goes Missing in Delhi: Initial Disappearance Sparks Panic
19-year-old Sneha Debnath, a student at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, Delhi University, and a native of Sabroom, South Tripura, was reported missing in New Delhi on July 7, 2025. According to her family, Sneha last contacted her mother early that morning, stating she was accompanying a friend named Pitunia to Sarai Rohilla Railway Station.
Her last phone call was made at 5:56 AM, and by 8:45 AM, her mobile was switched off. Family members later learned that Pitunia never met her that day, escalating their concerns.
A cab driver traced by the family confirmed he had dropped Sneha near Delhi's Signature Bridge, a location that has drawn safety concerns in recent years due to poor surveillance and insufficient CCTV coverage.
Tripura CM’s Intervention and Police Response
As the disappearance gained attention, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha swiftly responded. The Tripura Chief Minister's Office (CMO) posted an official statement on social media, confirming that the matter had been taken seriously and necessary instructions had been issued to Delhi Police for immediate action.
The Delhi Police Crime Branch, supported by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), launched an extensive search operation within a 7-kilometre radius of the Signature Bridge area. Despite the seriousness and scale of the search effort, no immediate leads were found.
Missing for Six Days: Body Found Near Signature Bridge
On July 13, 2025, Delhi Police located a female body in the Yamuna River near Signature Bridge. The body was later confirmed to be that of Sneha Debnath, bringing a tragic end to the six-day search operation.
The Tripura CMO confirmed the recovery and credited the swift and coordinated efforts of Delhi Police and the intervention by CM Saha for ensuring that the case remained a high-priority investigation.
Preliminary Findings Point to Suicide
According to initial police assessments, Sneha is believed to have taken her own life by jumping into the Yamuna River from Signature Bridge. A note shared by her family also indicated such intentions. Some eyewitnesses reportedly saw a girl matching her description standing on the bridge before disappearing from sight.
Her close friends mentioned that Sneha had been emotionally distressed for several months. She had sent WhatsApp messages and emails earlier that morning, suggesting signs of psychological struggle.
Further investigation is ongoing to verify the exact circumstances and determine whether any external factors or negligence contributed to the tragedy.
Tripura CM’s Condolences and Support Measures
CM Manik Saha expressed deep grief over Sneha’s death and extended heartfelt condolences to her family. He also directed the Tripura Bhavan in Delhi to provide full logistical and emotional support to the bereaved family. The CM reiterated that a thorough investigation would be ensured, and all necessary help will be extended to uncover the complete truth behind this tragic incident.
Safety Concerns at Signature Bridge Re-emerge
Sneha’s case has reignited public concern about the safety and surveillance at Signature Bridge, an area that has previously seen several incidents and lacks proper CCTV infrastructure. Authorities and civil society groups are now pressing for urgent security upgrades to prevent such tragedies in the future.
A Heartbreaking Loss and a Wake-up Call
Sneha Debnath’s death is a painful reminder of the mental health challenges faced by young students, especially those studying away from home. As universities, authorities, and communities reflect on this loss, the need for counselling support, safe infrastructure, and proactive crisis intervention mechanisms has never been more urgent.
Conclusion
Sneha's story began with promise but ended in tragedy. Her passing must compel systemic introspection into mental health awareness, student safety in metropolitan cities, and institutional support mechanisms. It is a call for action—not just from governments, but from campuses, communities, and society at large.
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