NEET Re-Exam Uncertainty Casts Shadow After Aspirant Dies by Suicide in Karnataka

An 18-year-old NEET aspirant allegedly died by suicide at her home in Karnataka’s Bidar district, police said on Sunday, amid growing anxiety among students following the cancellation of the NEET-UG examination over alleged paper leak concerns.

The deceased, identified as Bhagyashree , had reportedly secured 92 per cent marks in PUC and was considered academically bright. According to her father Rajashekhar , there were no visible family or financial issues. “She had performed well. Everything was going well. Maybe she had concerns about writing the exam again,” he said emotionally while speaking to reporters.

Police said no suicide note was recovered, and a case has been registered under the jurisdiction of Station Bazaar police station.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the intense pressure surrounding competitive examinations in India. Mental health experts say uncertainty linked to exam cancellations, re-tests, and performance expectations can significantly affect vulnerable students. Psychologists note that many aspirants spend years preparing for high-stakes exams like NEET, often under social and parental pressure.

According to NCRB data, thousands of students die by suicide in India every year, with academic stress emerging as a major factor. Experts have also flagged gaps in counselling systems at schools and coaching centres, particularly during periods of exam-related disruption.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the May 3 NEET-UG exam following allegations of a question paper leak and scheduled a re-examination for June 21, triggering anxiety among lakhs of aspirants.

Authorities and mental health professionals have urged students facing emotional distress to seek help through counselling services and suicide prevention helplines.