Tragedy in Kota: 18-Year-Old NEET Aspirant From Jammu and Kashmir Dies by Suicide, 15th Case This Year
Just a few days after the Supreme Court of India expressed much concern over rising cases of students dying by suicide, particularly in Kota, another life is gone.
The city of Kota, often referred to as India’s coaching capital, witnessed yet another tragic incident on Sunday evening.
An 18-year-old NEET aspirant from Jammu and Kashmir, identified as Zeeshan, allegedly died by suicide in her paying guest accommodation near Pratap Chouraha.
The news was confirmed on Monday by local police authorities. This marks the 15th student suicide in Kota in 2025 alone, and the second such case reported in May.
Final Phone Call Before the Tragedy
According to Circle Inspector Ramesh Kavia of Mahaveer Nagar Police Station, Zeeshan had placed a distressing phone call to a relative, identified as Burhan, shortly before the incident.
During the call, she allegedly expressed her emotional turmoil and hinted that she might take her own life.
Alarmed by the statement and sensing the gravity of the situation, Burhan immediately reached out to Mamta, a fellow student living on the floor above Zeeshan in the same building.
Desperate Attempt to Save Her
Mamta rushed to Zeeshan’s room without delay. However, upon arrival, she found the door locked from the inside. Realizing something was wrong, she called for help.
Several residents and workers nearby quickly gathered, and with the help of a grinder borrowed from carpenters, they forced the door open.
Once inside, they found Zeeshan in a critical condition. She was promptly rushed to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, the doctors declared her dead.
Background and Recent Life in Kota
Police revealed that Zeeshan had returned to Kota about a month ago. She had previously spent time in the city preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) at a coaching institute.
However, this time, she had chosen not to enroll at any institute and was instead focusing on self-study. Despite her determination, it seems the pressures of academic expectations and isolation may have weighed heavily on her.
The Room Lacked a Safety Mechanism
In recent years, the Kota administration has been encouraging hostels and paying guest accommodations to install anti-suicide mechanisms as preventive measures.
One such safety feature is an anti-hanging device — a spring-based attachment on the fan rod designed to disengage the fan under significant weight, thereby preventing hanging attempts.
Sadly, Zeeshan’s room did not have this safety feature installed, which could have potentially made a difference in this case.
Another NEET Aspirant Lost Earlier This Month
This tragic event comes just weeks after a similar incident was reported on May 3, when another NEET aspirant from Madhya Pradesh took her life just a day before the entrance examination.
That student was found deceased in her rented room under the Kunhadi Police Station jurisdiction. The incident reignited debates about student mental health and the overwhelming pressure associated with competitive exams.
A Worrying Trend in Kota
Kota, a city known for its coaching institutes and intense academic atmosphere, continues to grapple with a rising number of student suicides.
The relentless pressure to perform, coupled with the emotional and psychological challenges of living away from home, often takes a heavy toll on young minds.
While coaching institutes and hostels have started implementing measures like counseling sessions, mentorship programs, and anti-suicide equipment, the effectiveness of these efforts remains under scrutiny, especially when tragedies like Zeeshan’s continue to occur.
Authorities Urge Awareness and Support
In response to the incident, police officials and local leaders have urged students, parents, and institutions to prioritize mental well-being.
The importance of open communication, access to psychological support, and proactive intervention was reiterated by health and education advocates.
As investigations into Zeeshan’s death continue, her story serves as a grim reminder of the immense pressure placed on India’s youth in pursuit of academic success.
Authorities and society at large are being called upon once again to not only understand the crisis but to act decisively to prevent further loss of life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, please seek help. You are not alone. Reach out to mental health professionals, helplines, or trusted individuals for support.
