Chandigarh, April 23: The Haryana Human Rights Commission has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the recent incidents of suicide and attempted suicide at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Kurukshetra. This action follows the commission’s automatic cognizance of multiple cases that have emerged in recent days.
The commission referenced media reports and initial information, highlighting that the frequency of such incidents raises serious concerns regarding student safety, mental health, and institutional accountability.
According to reports, a first-year student attempted suicide by jumping from the fifth floor of the hostel but was rescued in time and admitted to the hospital. Earlier, on April 16, the body of a second-year student was discovered in his hostel room, prompting protests from students who accused the administration of negligence. Additionally, two other student deaths were reported in February and March, along with another incident on April 8, indicating a troubling trend.
Justice (Retd.) Lalit Batra, the commission’s chairman, along with members Kuldeep Jain and Deep Bhatia, expressed concern that the measures taken by the institution appear insufficient in light of the ongoing incidents. To date, only two professors have been transferred, which they deemed inadequate.
Following the recent suicide attempt on April 18, the commission acknowledged that the actions taken so far have been neither sufficient nor effective. They also noted that these incidents reveal potential deficiencies in mental health support, counseling services, monitoring systems, and crisis management mechanisms at the institution.
The commission clarified that the responsibility of educational institutions extends beyond academics; they must also ensure the physical and mental well-being of their students. The recurrence of such incidents suggests a failure to fulfill these responsibilities, raising questions about the right to life, dignity, and mental health under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
Furthermore, the commission stated that this issue is linked to India’s international human rights commitments, particularly the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They have requested a detailed report from the director of NIT Kurukshetra and the relevant district commissioner. The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for May 19.
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