A 27-year-old Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) aspirant died after falling from a multi-storey building in Pune on Tuesday night. Initial investigations suggest that overwhelming exam pressure may have played a significant role in the tragedy, reigniting concerns about the mental health crisis among India’s competitive exam candidates.
The deceased, identified as Rohit Patil (name changed for privacy), was preparing for the highly competitive MPSC exams, which are known for their rigorous syllabus and intense competition. According to police reports, Rohit was residing in a rented apartment in the city’s Sadashiv Peth area, a locality popular among students and aspirants.
Eyewitnesses state that Rohit fell from the fifth floor of his building late Tuesday evening. Neighbors rushed to his aid and called emergency services, but he was declared dead upon arrival at a nearby hospital. No suicide note was found at the scene, but friends and family told police that Rohit had been visibly anxious and withdrawn in recent weeks due to mounting academic stress.
The MPSC, like other major competitive exams in India, demands months,if not years of dedicated study, often under immense pressure from family expectations and societal norms. Many aspirants relocate to urban centers like Pune, living away from their support systems and facing isolation, financial strain, and relentless competition.
Mental health experts warn that the pressure to succeed in such exams can lead to anxiety, depression, and, in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts. According to recent studies, India has one of the highest rates of student suicides globally, with exam-related stress cited as a major factor.
The tragic incident has sparked an outpouring of grief and concern among Pune’s student community and beyond. Local student organizations have called for increased mental health resources and counseling services for aspirants. Social media has been flooded with messages urging young people to seek help and reminding them that academic setbacks do not define their worth.
Pune Police have appealed to students and parents to remain vigilant for signs of distress and to reach out for professional support when needed. “We urge all students facing exam pressure to talk to someone they trust or seek counseling. There is always help available,” said a police spokesperson.
This tragedy underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms in how India addresses student mental health, particularly for those preparing for high-stakes exams like the MPSC, UPSC, and banking services