Date: September 27, 2024
Tragedy has struck National Law University (NLU), Delhi once again, as the institution reports its third case of suicide within the last three months. The student, whose identity is yet to be officially released, marks the latest in a series of deeply concerning events, following the recent suicides of first-year student Shah Khushil Vishal and third-year student Amrutavarshiny Senthil Kumar.
These tragic losses have shaken the entire legal and academic community, prompting urgent conversations about student well-being, inclusiveness, and the immense pressures faced by law students in competitive environments.
Student Body Calls for Action and Support
In the wake of these tragedies, NLU Delhi’s student body has come together to issue a powerful call for inclusiveness, mental health awareness, and solidarity across the university. Student leaders are emphasizing the need for greater institutional and community support to prevent further loss of life.
In a statement, the student body expressed their concerns:
“We are devastated by the recent loss of our fellow students. These tragedies highlight the pressing need for a more inclusive, supportive, and empathetic environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Academic rigor should never come at the cost of mental health, and we urge the administration to take immediate steps to foster a culture of solidarity and care.”
Demands for Structural Changes at NLU Delhi
The student body has proposed several actionable steps to address the mental health crisis on campus, which include:
- Enhanced Mental Health Resources: Students are calling for a significant expansion of mental health services, including more counselors, on-campus therapists, and readily available mental health resources. They are also advocating for better mental health awareness programs to destigmatize seeking help.
- Peer Support and Mentorship Programs: To create a more inclusive environment, students have requested the introduction of structured peer support groups and mentorship programs where students can share their struggles and seek guidance from upper-year students and faculty.
- Inclusive Policies and Curriculum Adjustments: Students are pushing for a review of the university’s academic policies, suggesting that excessive academic pressure without adequate mental health support contributes to stress and isolation.
- Mental Health Days: The student body has also suggested incorporating “mental health days” into the academic calendar to provide students with time to decompress, relax, and focus on their emotional well-being.
University’s Response to Recent Tragedies
In response to these incidents, NLU Delhi has taken steps to address mental health concerns on campus. Prof. Ruhi Paul, Registrar of NLU Delhi, has stated that the well-being of students remains the university’s top priority. In addition to appointing two on-campus counselors, the university has partnered with the online counseling platform YourDost, providing students with 24/7 access to free mental health services.
Moreover, the administration is actively working to expand its mental health support team and increase efforts to address the unique challenges faced by law students. However, students and mental health advocates alike are calling for more proactive, long-term solutions.
A Shared Responsibility: Creating a Culture of Care
The growing mental health crisis at NLU Delhi has sparked discussions throughout the legal education community in India. It highlights the need for systemic change and a collective approach to mental well-being in law schools, where students often face intense competition, isolation, and emotional fatigue.
As the student body and administration work to address these concerns, one thing is clear: solidarity, empathy, and inclusiveness are vital for creating a healthier, safer environment. The focus must shift from solely academic success to holistic student care, where mental health is prioritized just as much as academic performance.
Standing in Solidarity: Support and Resources
In these difficult times, it is essential to support one another, to reach out, and to remember that no one should suffer in silence. If you or someone you know is struggling, please do not hesitate to seek help. Here are some available resources:
- YourDost: 24/7 free online counseling platform for NLU Delhi students.
- National Helpline for Mental Health: 9152987821 (Available 24/7).
- NLU Delhi On-Campus Counselors: Contact information available through the university’s wellness center.
Final Thoughts
The series of tragic losses at NLU Delhi serves as a wake-up call for academic institutions nationwide to prioritize mental health. The student body’s call for inclusiveness and solidarity resonates deeply with the entire legal education community, reminding us that a supportive, empathetic environment is crucial for students’ success and well-being.
Let us unite in honoring the memories of those we have lost by working to ensure that no student feels left behind, unheard, or unsupported.
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