Supreme Court Issues Landmark Guidelines to Curb Student Suicides

Responding to what it termed a "deeply distressing" rise in student suicides, the Supreme Court of India has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines to protect students across all educational institutions. The ruling establishes mandatory safeguards aimed at addressing academic stress, exam pressure, and the lack of institutional support that have contributed to a growing national crisis.

A Framework for Mental Well-being

The court's 15-point directive applies to schools, colleges, universities, and coaching centers nationwide. Key measures include:

• Mandatory Mental Health Support: Institutions must provide access to dedicated counselors and assign mentors to small batches of students, especially during stressful periods.
• Staff Training: All teaching and non-teaching staff are required to undergo mental health training twice a year to help them recognize warning signs of distress and provide psychological first aid.
• Grievance Redressal: Functional internal committees must be established to handle complaints of ragging, sexual harassment, and other grievances, ensuring affected students receive psycho-social support.
• Prominent Helplines: Suicide helpline numbers must be clearly displayed in common areas and on institutional websites.

Legally Binding Directives

The court's intervention was prompted by alarming data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), which reported that 13,044 students died by suicide in 2022. The bench noted these figures highlight systemic gaps that require immediate action.

Invoking its constitutional powers, the Supreme Court stated that these guidelines will have the force of law until formal legislation is enacted. The ruling came during a hearing related to the tragic death of a 17-year-old NEET aspirant, underscoring the urgent need for these protective measures.

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