The recent news of a 19-year-old IIT-Bombay student, Arman Khatri, accused of abetting the suicide of fellow student Darshan Solanki, has once again highlighted the issue of mental health in educational institutions. The case is currently being heard by a special SC-ST court, and a decision on Khatri’s bail plea is expected soon.
This is not the first time that IIT-Bombay has been in the news for student suicides. In recent years, there have been several cases of suicides by students at the institute, and this has raised concerns about the mental health support available to students in these highly competitive educational environments. The pressures of academic performance, combined with a lack of support for mental health issues, can create a toxic environment that can be detrimental to students’ well-being.
The case also highlights the need for transparency in investigations into student suicides. The police have cited concerns about the manner in which statements were recorded in the investigation, and have expressed their unwillingness to rely on the educational institution’s internal report. It is essential that investigations are conducted in a thorough and transparent manner to ensure that justice is served and that all parties involved are treated fairly.
In response to the growing concerns about mental health in educational institutions, some universities have taken steps to improve mental health support for students. This includes providing access to counseling services and mental health resources, as well as implementing policies to reduce stress and create a more supportive environment for students. However, much more needs to be done to address this issue, and it is crucial that educational institutions prioritize the mental health and well-being of their students. The case of Arman Khatri and Darshan Solanki highlights the need for greater awareness and support for mental health issues in educational institutions. It is essential that all students have access to the resources and support they need to thrive academically and emotionally, and that investigations into student suicides are conducted in a transparent and fair manner. Only then can we hope to prevent further tragedies like this from occurring.