The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of four student suicides at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Kurukshetra, since February this year. The commission has sought a detailed report from the district administration, police, and institute management regarding these tragic incidents.
Details Sought by the Commission
The HHRC has asked the authorities to submit comprehensive information on the sequence of events leading to the suicides, any signs of distress exhibited by the students, and the availability of counselling and mental health support on the campus. The commission has also directed officials to clarify whether standard operating procedures were followed and if any lapses occurred in the implementation of student welfare guidelines.
Disturbing Pattern of Incidents
Preliminary inputs from the commission point to a disturbing pattern. In addition to the four suicides, a first-year student recently attempted suicide but was rescued. Furthermore, a second-year student was found dead on April 16, which triggered protests by fellow students. These incidents have raised serious concerns about the mental health environment at the institute.
Call for Safe Academic Environment
The commission noted that educational institutions must ensure a safe and supportive environment, especially in high-pressure academic settings. The HHRC's intervention underscores the need for robust mental health support systems and adherence to welfare guidelines to prevent such tragedies.
