Why Did the Supreme Court React to Rising Student Suicides in Kota?
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Synopsis
In light of a concerning trend of student suicides in Kota, the Supreme Court has demanded action from the Rajasthan government. This article delves into the details of the recent FIR filed after the tragic death of a NEET aspirant, raising critical questions about student mental health and safety.
Key Takeaways
- Rising suicide rates among students in Kota are a serious concern.
- The Supreme Court has demanded action from the Rajasthan government.
- Two FIRs have been filed related to student suicides.
- Mental health support for students is urgently needed.
- Investigations into the circumstances surrounding these suicides are ongoing.
Kota, May 27 (NationPress) The Rajasthan Police on Tuesday initiated an FIR regarding the tragic suicide of an 18-year-old student from Jammu and Kashmir in Kota.
The Supreme Court recently expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in such incidents within the city. The deceased, identified as Zeeshan Jahan, a NEET aspirant from Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, was discovered deceased in her PG accommodation located in Mahavir Nagar on May 25.
Authorities confirmed that this marks only the second instance in Kota where an FIR has been lodged related to a student suicide.
Previously, the Supreme Court had taken serious cognizance of the escalating number of student suicides in Kota. On May 23, a bench led by Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan questioned the Rajasthan government's lack of action, asking, "Fourteen students have taken their lives in Kota this year. What measures are you implementing as a state? Why are students feeling compelled to end their lives in Kota? Have you contemplated this matter?"
In response, police registered FIRs in two distinct student suicide cases—one at Kunhari Police Station and another at Mahavir Nagar Police Station.
Officer Ramesh Kaviya from Mahavir Nagar Police Station confirmed that Zeeshan Jahan was found hanging in her room. Prior to the incident, she had reportedly communicated with an individual named Burhan via phone.
After their conversation, Burhan reached out to a mutual friend in Kota, requesting her to check on Zeeshan. Upon her arrival, she discovered the room locked from the inside. Hearing her cries, nearby students gathered, and a carpenter was summoned to break open the door with a cutter. Zeeshan was found hanging and was quickly transported to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
A postmortem was conducted in the presence of her relatives who had traveled from Jammu and Kashmir. The police have filed a case under Sections 306 and 108 of the IPC, which address abetment of suicide.
The involvement of Burhan is currently under scrutiny. According to Zeeshan's uncle, Shakeel Ahmed Wani, she had been experiencing mental distress and was undergoing medical treatment. She had previously enrolled in a private coaching institute in Kota and had returned to the city just a month post-Eid. Investigations are underway to determine whether she had re-enrolled for this session.
In a separate incident, Kunhari Police Station Officer Arvind Bhardwaj confirmed an FIR was filed on May 23 concerning a 17-year-old student who died by suicide just before the NEET exam on May 4. He was found hanging in his room while his parents were out shopping.
Point of View
I believe it is imperative to address the mental health crisis among students, particularly in high-pressure environments like Kota. The rising suicide rates are a signal for urgent intervention. We must prioritize student welfare and ensure adequate support systems are in place to prevent further tragedies.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Supreme Court to intervene in Kota?
The Supreme Court intervened due to a significant rise in student suicides in Kota, questioning the state's lack of action.
Who was Zeeshan Jahan?
Zeeshan Jahan was an 18-year-old NEET aspirant from Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, who tragically took her own life in Kota.
What steps are being taken to address student suicides in Kota?
The Rajasthan Police have filed FIRs in connection with student suicides, and the Supreme Court is urging the government to implement effective measures.
