A death at IIT-Delhi and the many invisible struggles on campus

Rishikesh Kumar, a student from Bihar, had aspirations to study at IIT-Delhi with a passion for both physics and poetry. However, he battled with mental health issues. On August 22, Kumar tragically passed away, reportedly by suicide. His death brings attention to the struggles faced by students in highly competitive institutions like IIT-Delhi, where the pressure can often feel overwhelming.

Since 2023, there have been eight such incidents at the campus. Recognizing the challenges faced by students, IITs have taken steps to enhance diversity and well-being, such as providing supernumerary quotas for women and athletes, and appointing the dean of student well-being. Despite these efforts, the pressure persists throughout a student's journey, from the rigorous selection process to the challenges of fitting in and excelling once enrolled.

A committee set up in 2023-24 noted a culture of post-coaching burnout and alienation among marginalized and first-generation students. Following Kumar's death, IIT-Delhi has launched an investigation, but the questions extend beyond the campus environment. Mental health is often viewed through the lens of individual experiences, but what happens when students who have overcome significant pressures in their pursuit of top-tier education struggle to cope with the aftermath?

Parents and educators must urgently address this contradiction, creating environments where ambition and well-being coexist, providing safe spaces for counseling, and teaching young people to manage life's challenges. The focus should shift towards fostering thriving young individuals, rather than merely producing high achievers.