Anti-Suicide Device Installation
Following two tragic student suicides at Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) is implementing an anti-suicide device installation in hostel ceiling fans across its medical colleges. The devices, designed to detach under excessive weight and trigger alarms, aim to prevent suicides and ensure timely intervention. This initiative addresses the growing mental health crisis among medical students in Karnataka.
A Response to Tragic Losses
Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), which governs Karnataka’s medical colleges, has announced the installation of anti-suicide devices in hostel ceiling fans. This decision follows two back-to-back student suicides at the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS). On July 30, 2025, Bharat Yatthinamani, a medical student from Koppal district, was discovered dead in his hostel room. Just days later, on August 2, Nishkala, a final-year BSc nursing student, also took her life. Consequently, these heartbreaking events have prompted immediate action to strengthen suicide prevention efforts within medical campuses.
How the Anti-Suicide Device Works
These devices offer a practical and proactive solution to prevent hanging—a common suicide method in hostels. Specifically, the mechanism detaches the fan from its hook if weight above a certain threshold (about 20 kg) is applied. As a result, the fan collapses, rendering the suicide attempt ineffective. Simultaneously, a built-in siren activates to alert hostel authorities. This allows staff to intervene quickly and provide psychological support. Recently, RGUHS demonstrated this device at MIMS and has now committed to implementing it across all affiliated hostels.
Addressing a Mental Health Crisis
Mental health challenges continue to plague medical students, who often deal with overwhelming academic pressure and emotional isolation. According to a 2019 National Crime Records Bureau report, over half (53.6%) of student suicides in these institutions involved hanging. In response, RGUHS officials—including Dr. Sanjeev from the Curriculum Development Cell—visited MIMS in July 2025 to assess the situation and formulate preventive strategies. While this device targets immediate risks, mental health experts argue that it doesn’t fully address core issues such as inadequate psychological services and the stigma around seeking help.
Broader Implications and Challenges
The decision echoes similar efforts in other regions. For example, Kota, known for its coaching institutes, introduced spring-loaded fan devices in 2023 to curb student suicides. Likewise, RGUHS has considered mounting fans directly onto ceilings to eliminate hooks. Although these physical interventions are helpful, experts stress the need for systemic change. Therefore, RGUHS is being urged to implement complementary actions, such as regular counseling and mental health assessments, alongside the device rollout.
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A Step Toward Safer Campuses
By introducing anti-suicide devices, RGUHS takes an important step toward safeguarding student lives. However, while this measure may reduce suicide attempts, lasting change requires more than just technical solutions. Expanding mental health services, promoting emotional awareness, and creating supportive communities are essential. Ultimately, this initiative could serve as a model for other institutions to follow, encouraging a broader cultural shift in how academic environments prioritize student well-being.
