In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Kota, often regarded as the IIT-preparation capital of India, was once again engulfed in grief on Sunday, August 27. Two NEET aspirants, driven by despair, chose to end their lives, casting a shadow over the dreams of many. One of these students hailed from Latur, Maharashtra, and tragically jumped from the sixth floor of his institute.
The other, from Bihar, succumbed to the weight of his aspirations, ending his life by hanging in his hostel room. These tragic incidents marked the seventh suicide this August alone, bringing the total count to 23 for the year in Kota.
The Troubling Words of Rajasthan Minister Govind Ram Meghwal
Recently, Rajasthan Minister Govind Ram Meghwal made headlines for all the wrong reasons when addressing the suicides of these two young aspirants. In a controversial statement, he attributed the tragic events to excessive mobile phone usage and advised students to steer clear of “bad company.” According to the minister, the incessant use of mobile phones was driving youngsters into depression, highlighting a concerning shift in societal dynamics. He lamented that, in earlier times, families would gather to engage in discussions about spirituality and other meaningful topics.
The minister’s comments took an even more alarming turn when he remarked, “When one is in bad company, such feelings come naturally. I want to tell the students to be in good company and have good thoughts.” He earnestly appealed to students to dedicate themselves to their studies, recognizing them as the future pillars of the nation.
#WATCH | On the body of a minor girl found in a well near her house in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan Minister Govind Ram Meghwal says, “You know that crime is taking place across India. But there is atrocity on Dalits in Uttar Pradesh and no action takes place there. Those who speak… https://t.co/4gCUKcSU9k pic.twitter.com/Y841GnfyHt
— ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) August 11, 2023
A History of Controversial Remarks
This is not the first time Minister Meghwal has found himself in the midst of controversy due to his statements. Earlier this month, his comments concerning the body of a minor girl found in a well near her house in Sawai Madhopur garnered significant attention.
In response to questions about the rising crimes against girls and women in Rajasthan, the minister pointed out the widespread issue of crime across India. He emphasized the atrocities committed against Dalits in Uttar Pradesh and the lack of action taken in such cases, mentioning the imprisonment of those who dared to speak up. Minister Meghwal assured that, in the state governed by Ashok Gehlot, wrongdoers, regardless of their status, would face justice.
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A Call to Action and Reflection
As the nation grapples with the tragic loss of young lives in Kota, it is evident that more needs to be done to address the underlying issues that lead to such desperate acts. While the minister’s comments may have sparked controversy, they also serve as a stark reminder of the importance of fostering a supportive environment for our youth.
It is crucial to recognize that mental health challenges among students, compounded by the pressures of competitive exams, can lead to dire consequences. Instead of simply pointing fingers, we must collectively work towards creating a nurturing atmosphere where students feel valued, supported, and understood.
In conclusion, the recent suicides of NEET aspirants in Kota underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address mental health issues in the student community. Rather than laying blame, let us unite in our efforts to provide the necessary guidance, counseling, and emotional support that young minds require to flourish. Only then can we hope to prevent such heart-wrenching tragedies in the future?