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Kota's Ongoing Struggle with Student Suicides

Kota's persistent crisis of student suicides continues despite numerous preventive measures, as relentless academic pressure and inadequate mental health support take a tragic toll.

By Nihal Kumar
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Kota's Tragic Reality

This month, a 16-year-old engineering aspirant in Kota allegedly died by suicide, hanging himself from a ceiling fan inside his PG room. This tragic incident is one of many in Kota, the country's coaching hub. This year alone, nearly 13 students have ended their lives. Last year, the number was a staggering 26. The education system in Kota prioritises merit over individual well-being, with competition reaching dangerously extreme levels. The crisis is deeper than it appears, with many parents refusing to believe their children's deaths were suicides.

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A Father's Struggle

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Harjot Singh Chhabra, father of the deceased Manjot Chhabra, firmly believes his son was murdered. "First of all, I want to make it clear that my son did not commit suicide. His hands were tied behind his back, and polythene was wrapped around his face. His neck was choked. I have four photos to show you (displays pictures). Look at my son's hand in this photo; his hands are tied behind him. When I reached his hostel room and turned his body, I discovered his hands were tied from behind. No one can tie their own hands and simultaneously tie something around their neck. It is impossible to wrap polythene around the face, tie something around the neck, and at the same time, tie your hands behind your back and then commit suicide."

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Chhabra continues, "Since the

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