Synopsis
Bhubaneswar, March 10 (NationPress) Since 2020, the Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, reported 72 student suicides across government and private institutions, revealing critical factors contributing to these tragic events. Efforts for mental health awareness in schools remain unclear.Key Takeaways
- 72 student suicides reported since 2020.
- Major causes include academic stress and relationship issues.
- Government lacks clear measures for mental health programs.
- Recent incidents highlight negligence in addressing harassment.
- 26 suicides in residential schools since July 2024.
Bhubaneswar, March 10 (NationPress) A minimum of 72 student suicide incidents have been documented across various government and private educational institutions in the state since 2020, as stated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during an assembly session on Monday.
CM Majhi disclosed this information while addressing a query posed by Congress MLA Sofia Firdous regarding the number of suicide cases and the initiatives implemented by the state government to promote mental health awareness among students.
“In total, 72 student suicide cases have been recorded in government and private schools and colleges throughout Odisha from 2020 to 2025 (up to February 28, 2025),” CM Majhi articulated on Monday.
He further elaborated on the primary factors identified by authorities that lead vulnerable young individuals to take their own lives.
The Chief Minister pointed out that restrictions on phone usage in school hostels, complications arising from romantic relationships, and examination-related depression are significant reasons compelling students to commit suicide.
Additionally, he mentioned that academic pressure, homesickness, parental limitations on visiting home, family disputes, psychological issues, mental instability, and bullying by peers or educational authorities are also critical factors contributing to student suicides.
CM Majhi noted that the government lacks information regarding any measures taken or planned for conducting mental health awareness programs for students and training educators to recognize and assist students exhibiting signs of distress.
The recent suicide of a Nepali female student at KIIT University in Bhubaneswar highlighted allegations of harassment from fellow students and negligence from the educational authorities.
Students claimed that the private university ignored repeated complaints made by the victim regarding harassment by the accused.
Notably, the state government recently reported that 26 students have lost their lives in residential schools managed by the ST and SC Development Department of the Odisha government since July 2024.
