BITS Pilani, one of the country’s leading professional institutions, is facing concern after a series of student deaths in its campus hostel. On Saturday, a 20-year-old Computer Science student from Lucknow was found dead in his room, with Verna police registering a case of unnatural death. This is the fourth such incident since December 24, when three other students lost their lives, reportedly due to suicide or unexplained causes.
The March case is still under investigation following parents’ complaints of possible foul play. Experts stress that such incidents highlight the need for institutions and parents to take student well-being seriously. The intense academic curriculum, coupled with parental expectations, often leaves students mentally distressed and struggling to cope.
BITS has introduced measures like flexible exams, stress management courses, and an option to change streams. However, students living away from family often fail to share their anxieties.
Timely action may prevent further tragedies and safeguard careers while protecting the institute’s reputation.
