18 – Year – Old Preparing For Competitive Exams Dies By Suicide In Kota
Niharika Singh, an 18-year-old from Kota’s Borkheda area, committed suicide while preparing for competitive examinations, police reported. The incident serves as a reminder of the growing problem of exam stress among the pupils receiving tutoring.
The deceased, was preparing for Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and found hanging at her residence. After knowing the attempt, family rushed her towards hospital whereupon she was declared dead and sent for post-mortem. The police started an investigation to ascertain the reason behind the tragic step.
The police recovered a suicide note from her home where she lived with her father, a bank employee. According to the information, Niharika was repeating 12th class and battling with the intense mental pressure of competitive exams. Despite investing 7 to 8 hours daily, she found the preparation challenging.
The incident follows suicide by another student, Mohammed Zaid, preparing for NEET in Kota. Last year, in the city, about 30 students died by suicide. According to Rajasthan Police data, the suicide rate was 18 in 2015, 17 in 2016, 7 in 2017, 20 in 2018, 18 in 2019 and 15 in 2022. No suicide was reported during 2020 and 2021.
Last year, considering the high incidence of suicides Central government issued guidelines to coaching institutes and district administration to alleviate the mental pressure from students. Mental health experts from Kota Medical College, emphasised the need to have a comprehensive approach for both coaching centres and parents to address the issue. Students admitted in the coaching institutes are around 15-16 years of age and miss the opportunity to indulge in extracurricular activities and friendships, which adds on mental pressure.
Near 2 lakh students flock to Kota annually to prepare for the entrance exams including JEE and NEET.
(This news story may contain content to suicide and suicidal behaviour. Such topics can be sensitive and may trigger emotional responses. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviours, we urge you to seek help immediately. Contact your local mental health crisis hotline, a mental health professional, or a trusted person in your life.
You may call 14416 or 1-8008914416 Tele MANAS service, a comprehensive mental health care service by Government of India.)
