‘They have not come here to die’: An epidemic of student suicides plagues India’s National Law Universities

On September 4, 2024, the tragic death of Amruta, a student at the National Law University (NLU) in Delhi, highlighted a growing crisis within India's premier legal education institutions. Amruta's untimely demise underscores a troubling pattern of student suicides plaguing these universities. This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the intense pressures faced by students in these competitive environments, where academic excellence often comes at the cost of mental well-being. The administration at NLU, Delhi, was acutely aware of Amruta's struggles, raising questions about the support systems in place for students. While many universities have introduced counseling services and mental health resources, the effectiveness of these measures is under scrutiny. Students and faculty are calling for more comprehensive mental health support, suggesting that current initiatives fall short of addressing the underlying issues contributing to student distress. This epidemic of student suicides is not isolated to NLU, Delhi, but is a pervasive issue across National Law Universities in India. As the nation grapples with this crisis, stakeholders are urging reforms to prioritize mental health and well-being alongside academic achievement. The hope is that by addressing these challenges head-on, future tragedies can be averted, ensuring that students who come to these institutions to learn and grow are not overwhelmed by the pressures they face.

— Authored by Next24 Live