Hyderabad NEET Aspirant Commits Suicide a Day Before National Retest

Hyderabad (IANS): A 19-year-old NEET aspirant died by suicide at her residence in Hyderabad on Saturday, just a day before the national medical entrance re-examination, police confirmed on Sunday.

Officials identified the student as Sheikh Sana, a resident of Miyapur. Preliminary investigations suggest that intense academic pressure, family expectations, and anxiety over past setbacks drove her to take the extreme step. Sana left a suicide note in English stating that no one was responsible for her death.

Tragic Discovery at Residence

Sana stayed in a Miyapur apartment with her two younger sisters (studying in Classes 10 and 6) to pursue her medical entrance preparation. Her father currently works in Kuwait, while her mother traveled to Proddatur in Andhra Pradesh about 10 days ago. An aunt lives in an adjacent apartment to help look after the siblings.

According to the police report:

• Sana went to her room to study on Saturday morning after having breakfast.
• Assuming she was deeply engrossed in her final revisions for Sunday’s retest, her sisters did not disturb her throughout the day.
• When she failed to emerge by Saturday evening, her sisters opened the door and discovered her body.

Responding to the family’s call, the police shifted the body to Gandhi Hospital for a post-mortem examination and officially registered a case. Sana’s aunt is currently caring for the two younger sisters.

Rising Toll Amid National NEET Crisis

Sana had previously attempted the competitive exam last year but could not secure a passing rank. Determined to succeed, she enrolled in long-term coaching and took the test again last month. She was among the candidates scheduled to sit for the re-examination on Sunday, June 21.

Her death marks the first reported suicide of a NEET aspirant from Telangana following the recent national crisis. A wave of student suicides has gripped the country since allegations of a question paper leak triggered the cancellation of the initial May 3 test.

Suicide Prevention Helpline

If you or someone you know is struggling with academic stress, anxiety, or mental health issues, please reach out for help. Several helplines operate across India to provide free, confidential support from trained counsellors:

• Tele-MANAS: 14416 or 1800 891 4416 (Government of India initiative available 24/7)
• Vandrevala Foundation: +91 9999 666 555
• AASRA: +91 98204 66726