The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) is in a state of sadness after a 28-year-old PhD student, Pragati Kharya, committed suicide in her hostel room on Thursday. This is the fourth case of a student possibly taking their own life at the well-known school in the past year.
PhD Student in Earth Sciences Found Dead
Kharya, who was from Sanigawan in Kanpur, was studying for a PhD in Earth Sciences. Her hostel mates found her on Thursday afternoon and told the school officials. The police think she might have taken her own life during the night.
IIT-K Expresses Condolences
IIT-K issued a message showing their deep sadness about the terrible event. They recognized Kharya’s abilities as a researcher and sent their most heartfelt sympathies to her loved ones.
Police Investigate
A police team visited the hostel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death. A suicide note was recovered from the room, but it reportedly doesn’t blame anyone for the act. The police are also examining Kharya’s mobile phone for clues. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination.
History of Student Suicide at IIT-Kanpur
This incident marks a disturbing trend at IIT-Kanpur. Three other students have died by suicide in the last year.
- Priyanka Jaiswal, a 29-year-old PhD scholar in Chemical Engineering (January 2024)
- Vikas Kumar Meena, a 31-year-old MTech student (January 2024)
- Pallavi Chilka, a 34-year-old postdoctoral researcher (December 2023)
The reasons behind these deaths are still under investigation. But, the frequent incidents are worrying about the mental health and overall well-being of students at IIT-Kanpur.
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