'Mental health screening and counselling should be implemented in educational institutions'; death of BDS student is deeply distressing, says IMA

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A tragic incident involving the suicide of a BDS student at a dental college in Kannur’s Anjarakandy has drawn widespread concern, with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Kerala State Branch calling for urgent reforms in student welfare systems.

Describing the loss as deeply distressing, IMA stated that the death of a young student is a significant loss not only to society but also to the healthcare sector. The association emphasised that teachers must act with care and responsibility, similar to parents, in guiding students through both academic and personal challenges.

IMA stressed that, along with academic development, safeguarding students' mental health and self-confidence is a fundamental responsibility of educational institutions. It strongly condemned any form of mental harassment or humiliating behaviour towards students and stated that such actions are unacceptable under any circumstances.

To prevent similar incidents in the future, IMA has recommended the mandatory implementation of mental health screening and regular counselling in educational institutions. It also called for the establishment of independent and reliable student grievance redressal committees and active anti-harassment cells in every institution. The association further highlighted the need for continuous sensitisation training for teachers to improve their approach and communication with students. It recommended introducing systems that allow students to submit complaints anonymously, along with ensuring timely action on such complaints.

Additionally, IMA suggested implementing a mentor system for each student to help identify and address academic and psychological issues at an early stage. It also emphasised maintaining regular communication with parents and establishing crisis management protocols in institutions to handle serious situations promptly.

IMA Kerala State President Dr M.N. Menon and State Secretary Dr Roy R. Chandran urged the authorities to intervene immediately to ensure that such incidents do not recur. They also demanded a swift and thorough police investigation into the incident to uncover the truth.