India’s Students Deserve Better — SC’s 15 New Rules Aim to Make Mental Health a Priority

Image Source: Usher Education

In a landmark move, the Supreme Court of India has issued 15 binding guidelines aimed at curbing student suicides and strengthening mental health support in educational institutions. The decision follows a tragic NEET-related death in Visakhapatnam and addresses the growing crisis of psychological distress among students.

Key Developments

- All schools, colleges, coaching centres, and hostels must adopt a uniform mental health policy inspired by Ummeed, Manodarpan, and the National Suicide Prevention Strategy

- Institutions with over 100 students must appoint trained mental health professionals; smaller ones must establish referral links

- Dedicated mentors are to be assigned to small student batches during exams and transitions

- Tamper-proof ceiling fans and restricted access to rooftops and balconies are mandated in residential facilities

- Coaching centres must avoid batch segregation based on performance and refrain from public shaming or unrealistic academic targets

Safety and Support Measures

- Mandatory biannual training for staff on psychological first aid and suicide prevention

- Prominent display of helpline numbers like Tele-MANAS in hostels and classrooms

- Confidential systems for reporting harassment, bullying, and discrimination

- Zero tolerance for retaliation against whistle-blowers or complainants

- Annual wellness reports to be submitted to regulatory bodies like UGC, CBSE, and AICTE

Looking Ahead

The Centre must file a compliance affidavit within 90 days, and states are directed to notify rules within two months. A National Task Force is also underway to institutionalize long-term reforms.

Sources: Indian Express, NDTV, Deccan Herald, Tribune India, New Indian Express, Careers360