Rajasthan Cabinet Minister Shanti Dhariwal has made controversial statements attributing the rising cases of student suicides in Kota to “affairs” and “parental pressure.” This comes in the wake of increasing concerns about student suicides in Kota, a prominent coaching hub for competitive exams in India.
Dhariwal’s remarks were made in reference to the recent death of a 16-year-old girl from Jharkhand who was preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) in Kota. The girl was found hanging in her room, and while no suicide note was recovered, the police initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her suicide.
The minister stated, “There is a need to investigate each and every case. In the case of the girl from Jharkhand who died today, it was found out that she had an affair due to which she died. She has left a letter.”
He went on to suggest that student suicides are also influenced by peer pressure, saying, “There have been cases where students have committed suicide due to affairs. A boy comes from Bihar and finds out he does not have as much calibre to perform as other students who stay with him do. He could also die by suicide due to peer pressure.”
Additionally, Dhariwal pointed out “parental pressure” as another factor contributing to student suicides. He stated, “There is parental pressure to perform as well.”
The minister’s comments have sparked controversy and raised questions about the mental health and well-being of students studying in coaching centers in Kota. The city has gained notoriety for the high-pressure environment created by the intense competition and expectations placed on students preparing for competitive exams.
According to Rajasthan Police data, there has been a concerning increase in student suicides in Kota. In 2023 alone, 25 student deaths by suicide have been reported, a significant rise compared to previous years. While student suicides in Kota have been a longstanding concern, the recent surge has prompted calls for a closer examination of the factors contributing to this trend and the need for mental health support for students.
The issue of student suicides in Kota is complex, involving multiple factors such as academic pressure, parental expectations, peer competition, and the need for psychological support. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the mental and emotional well-being of students and provides them with the necessary resources and support systems to cope with stress and challenges.
