Tamil Nadu has reported the deaths of three NEET aspirants in the days leading up to the June 21 re-examination, prompting renewed discussion about the impact of the national medical entrance test and calls from several political leaders for the state to be exempted from it.
According to police and state officials, the students were identified as 19-year-old S. Gopika from Salem district, 19-year-old R. Roshini from Dharmapuri district, and 20-year-old C. Vetri Anandan from Krishnagiri district. The deaths occurred on Friday and Saturday, shortly before the re-test, which was conducted after the original May 3 examination was cancelled following allegations of a question paper leak.
Family members of Gopika said she had been preparing for NEET for two years and had appeared for the examination multiple times. Police officials stated that she had previously spoken about the stress associated with the exam and the added pressure created by the announcement of a re-examination. She was taken to hospital after a suspected suicide attempt but was declared dead on arrival.
In Dharmapuri, Roshini had completed Class 12 this year and had been preparing for NEET after attending a coaching centre. Police said she was found dead at her home on Saturday. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death and have not officially confirmed whether examination-related stress played a role.
Meanwhile, police in Krishnagiri reported that Vetri Anandan had been preparing for NEET after unsuccessful attempts in previous years. Investigators said he had been disappointed by the cancellation of the May examination and the need to prepare again. A note recovered by police reportedly mentioned anxiety about the exam and concerns about failing. Authorities stated that he did not hold anyone responsible for his decision.
In a separate incident, an 18-year-old NEET aspirant from the Nilgiris allegedly attempted suicide on Sunday before leaving for her examination centre. She was admitted to a hospital and remains under medical care.
The incidents have triggered strong reactions from political parties in Tamil Nadu. Several leaders, including representatives of the DMK, PMK, and VCK, renewed demands for either the abolition of NEET or an exemption for Tamil Nadu from the examination system.
The NEET examination has remained a subject of debate in Tamil Nadu for several years, with supporters arguing that it creates a uniform admission process for medical colleges, while critics contend that it places significant pressure on students and disadvantages those from economically weaker backgrounds or state-board educational systems.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or emotional distress, seeking immediate support from a trusted person, mental health professional, or local crisis helpline can help.
Sources: The Indian Express
