National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi) is facing an unprecedented crisis in the wake of the unfortunate suicides of three students in the space of a month.
On Sunday, a first-year undergraduate student, Shreyashi Chandra died by suicide at her home, marking the third such case this month. Earlier, first-year student Shah Khushil Vishal and third-year student Amrutavarshiny Senthil Kumar had also passed away by suicide.
The deaths have sparked debates on academic pressure, caste-based discrimination, mental health issues and other difficulties faced by students at the law school. All eyes are on the administration to put in place measures to safeguard the wellness of students on and off campus.
In response to an email from Bar & Bench, the NLU Delhi Registrar Prof Ruhi Paul revealed that an "audit to reassess University systems" is underway.
The NLU Delhi campus currently has two counsellors with whom students can book sessions. It also provides a round-the-clock online counselling services through a platform called YourDost.
The Registrar stated that the University has expanded the Mental Health Team to cater to students and provide them 24x7 support.
"The University is committed to ensure the well-being of the students and the University as an institution is in consultation with the leading mental well-being experts to further develop the mental well-being ecosystem of the University," said the Registrar in response to whether a collaborative effort with external agencies is being taken to address the situation more comprehensively.
Prof Paul also said that the administration is in conversation with the students and their parents, the Student Bar Council and the alumni to discuss a way forward.
Former students of the University are making efforts to render support to the current student body. They are in active discussions with the Governing Body of the Alumni Association to voice their concerns.
Several alumni have volunteered to organise batch-wise townhall sessions with batches of second to fifth years, creating a platform for open dialogue and support. In addition, the alumni have launched a buddy system initiative through which current students can share their interests and areas where they require assistance. Alumni volunteers are paired with students to offer advice and emotional support.
The alumni network is also welcoming further external help and is committed to ensuring that the University's support system is robust and accessible.
If you or anyone else you know are facing mental health issues or having suicidal or self-harming thoughts, please access the helpline number given below:
iCall - 9152987821 (Health Helpline - Mon—Sat, 10 AM—8 PM. Languages: English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Assamese, Kashmiri.)
Aasra offers support to individuals and families during an emotional crisis, for those dealing with mental health issues and suicidal ideation, and to those undergoing trauma after the suicide of a loved one.
24x7 Helpline: 9820466726