21-Year-Old Indian Institute of Science Student Diamond Kushwaha Dies by Suicide

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Tragic Suicide of Indian Institute of Science-Bengaluru Student Sparks Concern

In a devastating incident that has sent shockwaves through the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) campus in Bengaluru, a 21-year-old student was found dead by suicide at the boys’ hostel on Friday. The student has been identified as Diamond Kushwaha, a second-year integrated PhD student hailing from Delhi. This incident has once again raised concerns about mental health and well-being among students in educational institutions.

The IISc Bengaluru issued an internal communication expressing their deep sorrow over the loss. The communication stated, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of a student, who was pursuing Integrated PhD at the Solid State and Structural Chemistry Unit (SSCU), by suicide on 1 December 2023. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the student’s family and friends. We are dedicated to ensuring that the IISc campus remains a safe and inclusive space for everyone.”

The tragic incident occurred at approximately 7:10 am, and Kushwaha’s body was immediately transferred to the MS Ramaiah Hospital. Authorities are now awaiting the postmortem report to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding his death. The Sadashivanagar police have stated that they are also awaiting the arrival of Kushwaha’s parents in Bengaluru to file an official complaint regarding the incident.

This unfortunate event has drawn attention to the need for mental health support and awareness within educational institutions. Notably, the IISc had previously taken measures to address the issue of student suicides. In an effort to prevent such tragedies, the institute had replaced ceiling fans with wall-mounted fans in hostels following four reported suicides since March 2021.

Sadly, this is the second campus suicide in Bengaluru within a span of just three weeks. On November 10, Ashwin Nambiar, a student of Azim Premji University, was found dead on the campus, leaving the academic community in shock. Responding to this distressing trend, alumni of the university have called for the establishment of a student body, improved communication channels, and greater transparency to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The alarming rise in student suicides has raised concerns among educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers. Many believe that there is an urgent need to prioritize mental health and provide comprehensive support systems within educational institutions. By fostering an environment of open communication and empathy, it is hoped that such tragedies can be prevented, and students can receive the help they need during challenging times.

It is essential for universities and colleges across the country to take proactive steps towards creating a safe and supportive environment for students. This includes implementing mental health programs, establishing counseling services, and promoting a culture of well-being. Only through collaborative efforts and a collective commitment to mental health can we ensure that students receive the necessary support to thrive academically and emotionally.

As the nation mourns the loss of Diamond Kushwaha, it is crucial that society reflects on the importance of mental health and works towards creating a compassionate and understanding environment for all individuals, especially those pursuing higher education..