Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 20: With over 20 lac candidates set to appear for the NEET-UG re-test on June 21, concerns have emerged over the mental health impact of examination-related uncertainty after reports of at least 12 student suicides in the 37 days since the original examination was cancelled.
The reported deaths from different states have renewed discussions on the intense pressure faced by students preparing for India’s highly competitive entrance examinations and the emotional impact of repeated uncertainty.
Among the reported cases was a 17-year-old NEET aspirant from Goa who allegedly died by suicide days after the exam was cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. Family members reportedly informed investigators that the student was distressed over the possibility of appearing for the examination again.
In Nagpur, an 18-year-old aspirant allegedly died by suicide after expressing concerns about the re-test. Local reports stated that a note recovered by police indicated the student was struggling to cope with the pressure of preparing again after months of preparation.
Similar incidents have been reported from Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Uttarakhand and other states. In several cases, families have cited examination-related stress and uncertainty as possible contributing factors, though police investigations are ongoing.
Experts said that while circumstances may differ in each case, the incidents highlight the emotional burden faced by students dealing with high-stakes examinations.
The uncertainty has affected not only candidates appearing for the re-test but also millions of students waiting for admission procedures and counselling schedules.
Mental health professionals said disruption of academic plans, concerns over fairness and fear of losing an academic year can increase anxiety among aspirants.
“The uncertainty itself becomes a stressor. Many aspirants spend years preparing for a single examination. Any disruption to that process can have a significant psychological impact,” a Delhi-based psychologist working with competitive exam aspirants told The Indian Express.
The NEET-UG controversy has also intensified debate over India’s examination system, where a single test often decides admission to professional courses.
While maintaining examination security and transparency remains a priority, experts have stressed the need for stronger counselling services and psychological support for students during periods of uncertainty.
The Union government has assured candidates that enhanced security measures have been implemented for the re-test. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has said the examination will be conducted under strict arrangements and steps are being taken to strengthen the examination system.