In a recent development, the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has mandated that educational establishments throughout the state align with Supreme Court directives aimed at preventing student suicides while ensuring robust mental health and safety protocols.

This directive was issued during a session addressing a petition from Brundaban Das Azad, who called for urgent action to combat the increasing suicidal tendencies among students, attributed to academic and emotional pressures. The petition emphasized various stressors, including competitive academics, the burden of examinations, societal and parental expectations, and the pressure to meet personal aspirations.

To address these concerns, the OHRC instructed the Secretary of the Higher Education Department, along with leaders of educational institutions, including universities in Odisha, to implement necessary measures following the Supreme Court’s guidelines.

The commission’s recommendations included appointing mental health counselors, launching mental health awareness initiatives, and enhancing safety measures within these institutions. Furthermore, the OHRC requested a report from the state government detailing the actions taken to tackle this pressing issue, with a deadline for submission set at three months. The Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department and the Director of Health Services in Odisha have also been tasked with providing essential support to institutions as they work to implement these measures.