Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 9: In a deeply tragic development, five girl students in Karnataka have ended their lives following the announcement of the results for the Second Pre-University (2nd PUC) or Class 12 Board Exams-1, despite repeated assurances and appeals from the state government.
The incidents have been reported from Mysuru, Ballari, Davanagere, Haveri, and Bengaluru within the last 24 hours. Authorities say the students were reportedly distressed over their exam performance.
In Mysuru, Ishwarya, a student of the Government PU College in Vontikoppal, was found dead under circumstances linked to her reaction to the results. Vijayalaxmi Siriguppada from Ballari’s Siraguppa taluk also passed away, reportedly unable to cope with the exam outcome.
In Davanagere, Krupa, a 2nd PUC science student, ended her life after learning that she had not cleared her first attempt. Kavya Basappa Lamani, from Haveri’s Hamsabhavi police station limits, also died after struggling to come to terms with her result.
In Bengaluru, a girl student from Vidyaranyapura reportedly took the step hours before the board exam results were made public. Police say fear and anxiety over the outcome may have driven her decision. The incident occurred at her apartment in Sapthagiri Layout.
Investigations into all these cases are underway.
In light of the situation, Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa had earlier urged students not to panic, explaining that the department has introduced a three-exam system to offer multiple chances for students to pass.
“This is just the result of the first examination. No student is being labelled as failed yet. They still have two more opportunities,” he said. He stressed that results currently reflect only the students who have passed, and final outcomes will be announced after all three exams are conducted.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also made a heartfelt appeal, urging students not to lose hope. “Life is far greater than one exam. There will always be another chance to succeed. Stay calm and don’t make impulsive decisions,” he said.
Despite the government’s efforts to provide support and flexibility, these heartbreaking incidents have highlighted the urgent need for stronger mental health awareness, counselling, and emotional support for students dealing with academic pressure.
The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) announced a pass percentage of 73.45%, with 4.68 lac students clearing the exams out of 6.37 lac who appeared.
Authorities are once again urging students and parents to seek help and support in times of distress, and to remember that exams are not the end — but just a part of the learning journey.
Suicide is not a solution to any problem. Kindly seek the help of mental health experts if you are under any kind of distress. Call toll free helpline number 9152987821.