5 SRM medical college MBBS students Drown In Sea Off Kanyakumari Coast

To a question, the police official said the students were told by local people to avoid going to the beach in view of official warnings of sudden 'swell waves.'

The students, however, managed to reach the beach by going through a coconut grove. They arrived in Kanniyakumari district on May 5 to take part in the wedding of a student's brother, the official said adding the bodies were being sent to the families, adds PTI.

Three students, who were part of the group, are being treated at a government hospital.

“There were high tides, and a security staff posted there had warned them. As they were close to the water, enjoying the sea, a strong wave hit them and dragged seven people. Two were rescued soon, but five students lost their lives due to drowning. One of the rescued is in critical condition and admitted to the hospital. A case has been registered, and an investigation is ongoing,” an officer informed The Indian Express.

Meanwhile, expressing grief, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin conveyed his condolences and sympathies to the kin of the deceased and said necessary assistance would be provided to the bereaved families after getting the Election Commission's permission.