Taapsee Pannu mourns NEET aspirant’s death; Says society has ‘normalised’ tragedies

Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of death, reader’s discretion is advisedActor Taapsee Pannu has reacted with deep anguish to the tragic death of a NEET aspirant in Patna calling it yet another reminder of how such incidents have become alarmingly frequent across the country.Speaking about the case, she told ANI, "There would have been 79 more such cases on that day, not just here but across the nation. I feel very sad. On average, 80 such incidents occur in the country; it might even be more than that. We have now stopped giving importance to such cases, and we have normalised them, which is very sad." Reports say that the death occurred near AIIMS Patna, where the student reportedly fell from the fourth floor of a coaching centre on February 13. She was taken for treatment but later died.Early reports circulating on social media alleged sexual assault. However, police stated that doctors have not confirmed sexual or penetrative assault.A previous press note added a critical detail as it said that during forensic examination, traces of human sperm were found on an undergarment said to belong to the deceased student.Officials revealed that a DNA profile is now being prepared. It will be matched with the arrested accused and suspects identified by the Special Investigation Team.Investigators continue to examine CCTV footage, statements from students at the coaching centre, and forensic evidence to determine what transpired inside the building before the fall.On the professional front the actress is gearing up for the release of Assi, one of her most anticipated projects. The film is directed by Anubhav Sinha. The film marks their third collaboration after 'Mulk' and 'Thappad'.Assi features a star-studded cast including Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Kani Kusruti, Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub, Supriya Pathak, Revathi, and Naseeruddin Shah.The film releases in theatres on February 20 and is expected to deliver another intense drama.