BITS Pilani Goa campus, which has been in the news over student deaths in recent years, faced a major embarrassment when one of their students was found highly inebriated on the Vasco-Verna Highway near the campus and was helped by some youth move past the road. The student has been placed under “medical care” by the institute, and officials stated that the student will be given an opportunity to explain his behaviour.
The incident reveals a concerning trend of student misbehaviour, distress, and broader issues in education today. While the institute investigates, we must once again consider the broader context, including academic pressures, mental health issues, and systemic failures, which play significant roles in the struggles students face.
Historically, student cases across India have shown the effects of constant academic demands. The fierce competition for grades, admissions, and job opportunities often leads to anxiety, depression, and harmful coping strategies. The academic challenges at BITS Pilani are well documented, with the institute even modifying its policies to ease pressures. The shocking deaths at BITS Pilani, Goa, including suicides and the recent drug-related death of a student, highlight the mental health crisis prevailing in the system. Academic and social pressures can worsen students' emotional vulnerabilities. This incident is a sad reflection that we have not done enough.
This incident also reminds us of past cases where overwhelmed students turned to substance abuse or other risky behaviours to escape their stress. The pressure to succeed academically, along with the fear of failure and feelings of isolation, often drives students toward unhealthy coping methods. Interestingly, the Goa police last week stated that three false cases of attempted child abduction were reported in Bhuipal (Sattari), Bicholim, and Taleigao, with children themselves fabricating the incidents to escape academic pressure and divert attention.
The video of the intoxicated student along the highway at night raises questions about campus culture and outside influences. It speaks about student liberties and accessibility of liquor, and supervision of students. While schools have rules about student outings, the reality of student life often involves navigating challenging social situations that can lead to risky actions. The wider social context is also important. The mental health crisis extends beyond campus—it is linked to societal fears, family pressure, and economic uncertainty. In this environment, students may turn to alcohol or drugs, further putting their lives at risk.
The video of the student barely managing to stand and being helped by others is not about BITS failing; it’s about an array of factors that are leading students to such situations. It could be the Goan culture, the free-flowing parties, and the alcohol environments that are influencing students. The list goes on. Whatever lens one looks through, these instances paint a horrible picture. Students resorting to narcotics and alcohol are glaring signs that we are not on the right course.
While notices, monitoring, and disciplinary actions are needed, they must be paired with easy access to counselling, peer support groups, and wellness programmes. Schools and universities should create environments where students can freely express themselves. The focus has to be on overall development, mental strength, and emotional support instead of just academic success. And while the system chugs on, the government must crack down on all liquor outlets in proximity to educational institutes, because easy access to alcohol is making it worse.
