The Haryana Human Rights Commission has launched an inquiry into a series of suicide incidents at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Kurukshetra. Concerns have been raised over student safety, mental well-being, and institutional responsibility following multiple suicide attempts and deaths on campus.
One incident involved a first-year student who tried to commit suicide by jumping from a hostel building’s fifth floor but was rescued and hospitalized. Another tragic event occurred when a second-year student was found dead in his hostel room, sparking protests due to alleged administrative delays in response.
The commission, led by Chairperson Justice (retd) Lalit Batra and members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, expressed worries about the institute’s limited actions in light of the recurring cases. Despite previous incidents, the recent suicide attempt on April 18 indicates that the current measures are insufficient.
The commission highlighted potential shortcomings in mental health support systems, counseling services, monitoring procedures, and crisis intervention protocols within the institution. Stressing the obligation of educational institutions, the commission emphasized the need to safeguard students’ physical and mental well-being beyond academic responsibilities.
The situation has raised concerns under Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, dignity, and mental well-being. The commission also underscored the issue’s relevance to India’s international human rights commitments, particularly under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Detailed reports have been requested from the NIT Kurukshetra Director and the Deputy Commissioner for the upcoming hearing on May 19.
