Tragedy and Protests: A Crisis at NIT Kurukshetra

A series of student suicides at NIT Kurukshetra has sparked campus protests. The latest incident saw a BTech student found dead, the fourth case in two months. Students criticize the administration's response, prompting policy changes on exams and an effort to address mental health and grievances.

A tragic scenario unfolded at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Kurukshetra, as a second-year student was found hanging in her hostel room, marking the fourth suspected suicide on campus in two months. The victim, Diksha Dubey from Bihar, was pursuing a BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.

Following the report of her death, students expressed outrage, citing dissatisfaction with the administration's response and the conduct of hostel staff. This led to widespread protests, particularly targeting the main gate, where demonstrators gathered late at night to voice their concerns.

The administration has since conceded to students' demands by allowing re-examinations on an annual schedule, in place of the prior even-odd semester system, aiming to alleviate academic pressure. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve mechanisms for addressing student grievances promptly.