Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi informed the Odisha Assembly that a total of 72 students have died by suicide over the past five years.
This disclosure was made in response to a query by Congress MLA Sofia Firdous.
According to the Chief Minister, the incidents were reported from various government and private educational institutions between 2020 and February 2025. The reasons behind these tragic cases were varied and included mental pressure, harassment, academic stress, misunderstandings with friends, domestic conflicts, issues related to love affairs, depression, homesickness, and psychological problems.
In light of these findings, the government is taking steps to address the mental health crisis among students. Information is being gathered regarding measures implemented or proposed to conduct mental health awareness programs and train teaching staff to identify and support students showing signs of distress.
The Chief Minister’s statement underscores the urgent need for increased mental health resources and support systems within educational institutions to prevent such tragedies in the future.
