The recent occurrence of two student suicides at prestigious engineering colleges has once again highlighted the ongoing mental health crisis within higher education. In response, IIT Bombay and the Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra, have opted to either modify or replace ceiling fans in their hostel accommodations as a precautionary measure. However, this action raises broader questions about how to effectively address the underlying issues contributing to student distress.
This initiative mirrors actions taken in Kota three years prior, where a spate of student suicides led to the implementation of “anti-suicide” spring-loaded ceiling fans and safety nets in hostel balconies and common areas.
Mental health professionals and educators assert that while these physical modifications may provide some safety, they do not tackle the root causes of student anxiety and pressure.
A national survey conducted by a committee appointed by the Supreme Court reveals the extent of the crisis. The research indicates that approximately 15 percent of students in higher education have felt overwhelmed or distressed in the last six months, with nine percent having contemplated suicide.
The results of this survey are expected to feature in the forthcoming report from the National Task Force (NTF), which is due to be released by the end of October.
Clinical psychologist Shweta Sharma notes that the culture within institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology stifles emotional expression. She reports that 60 to 70 percent of her clients are students from IITs and Indian Institutes of Management, who, despite their high intelligence and academic success, often struggle with social relationships and emotional well-being. Sharma emphasizes the need for a dedicated focus on mental health support, arguing that simply changing ceiling fans fails to address the deeper issues at play.
She further points out that the ratio of students to counselors is consistently inadequate, exacerbating the problem.
The urgency surrounding this issue increased following the tragic death of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode, who was discovered hanging in his room on September 18. Sources indicate that the initiative to replace ceiling fans began in July after a previous suicide incident.
Data reveals that between the academic years of 2020-21 and 2024-25, 45 suicides occurred across 23 IITs, with 28 involving students from marginalized communities such as SC, ST, and OBC.
The day after Wakode’s death, another student from BIT Mesra was found deceased in her hostel room. In light of this, the institution has announced the replacement of ceiling fans with models equipped with “anti-suicide rods.”
Therapist Maitri Chand considers self-harm among students to be a “systemic issue,” arguing that the removal of ceiling fans serves more as a superficial solution that provides a false sense of security. She believes that individuals determined to harm themselves will find alternative methods, highlighting the need for substantial systemic changes rather than mere optics.
According to Chand, for measures like the removal of ceiling fans to be effective, there must be a significant overhaul of the existing system. Institutions should establish well-resourced counseling departments staffed with trained professionals who understand the complexities of adolescent development.
In March 2025, the Supreme Court emphasized the necessity of addressing mental health issues within higher education and formed the National Task Force (NTF) to propose preventive strategies and enhance support systems in these institutions.
Earlier this year, the University Grants Commission (UGC) mandated that all higher education institutions implement a comprehensive mental health framework, following directives from the Supreme Court.
Aparajita Gautam of the Delhi Parents Association advocates for addressing the core issues leading to student distress, emphasizing that mere removal of ceiling fans will not resolve the underlying problems. She calls for stringent measures against bullying and other harmful behaviors.
Suparna Diwakar, an education specialist, highlights the importance of having trained counselors who can foster meaningful connections among students and faculty members. She notes that students often experience isolation during the transition from school to college, underscoring the critical role of interpersonal relationships in the educational experience.
The NTF survey, which gathered responses from over 243,000 students—67 percent of whom were from SC, ST, and OBC backgrounds—found that approximately 34 percent felt like outsiders on their campuses. Furthermore, 15 percent reported experiencing prolonged periods of distress, while nine percent had frequent suicidal thoughts over the past year. Although 56 percent of students expressed confidence in their administration’s ability to address serious issues fairly, around 32 percent indicated that their institutions lacked adequate counseling services.
In light of the discussions surrounding the replacement of ceiling fans, Diwakar stresses that a multifaceted approach is essential for real change.
