The Bombay High Court has raised concerns over the increasing instances of suicide among students pursuing higher education, deeming the situation “alarming” and calling for urgent action from authorities.
Court’s Directive:
- Mental and Physical Well-being: A division bench comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar emphasized that the mental and physical well-being of students is integral to their overall health.
- Public Interest Litigation: The court was addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by child rights activist Shobha Panchmukh. The PIL highlighted the rise in student suicides and inadequate measures to address mental health issues among students.
Key Points from the PIL:
- Role of Mumbai University (MU): The plea requested the court to direct MU to issue a circular to all affiliated and associated colleges to engage counsellors for student mental health support.
- Legal Obligations: The bench noted that under the Maharashtra Universities Act, universities have a legal obligation to promote a healthy atmosphere and ensure student welfare.
Court’s Observations:
- Immediate Measures: The court stated, “Such a situation is alarming and calls for immediate measures by all concerned.” It further expressed that universities are duty-bound to create an environment that prevents instances of suicide.
- Action Required: The court directed the petitioner to include the University Grants Commission (UGC) as a respondent, given the increasing autonomy of many colleges.
Next Steps:
- Affidavit Submission: The High Court has asked the Maharashtra government, Mumbai University, and the Higher and Technical Education Department to file affidavits within three weeks detailing the steps they plan to take.
Support Helplines: If you or someone you know needs help, the following helplines are available:
- Aasra (Mumbai): 022-27546669
- Sneha (Chennai): 044-24640050
- Sumaitri (Delhi): 011-23389090
- Cooj (Goa): 0832-2252525
- Jeevan (Jamshedpur): 065-76453841
- Pratheeksha (Kochi): 048-42448830
- Maithri (Kochi): 0484-2540530
- Roshni (Hyderabad): 040-66202000
- Lifeline (Kolkata): 033-64643267
The court’s intervention highlights the critical need for institutions to take proactive steps in addressing mental health issues and ensuring the well-being of students
