Rajasthan: Kota hostels use nets to make premises ‘suicide proof’

‘Anti-suicide’ nets installed at a hostel to catch students in case they jump from higher floors, in Kota. Pic/PTI

After spring-loaded fans in rooms, "anti-suicide nets" are now being installed in balconies and lobbies of hostels in coaching hub Kota to prevent students from taking any extreme step. Hostel owners said such steps to make their premises "suicide proof" are crucial to avoid tragic incidents.

Over two lakh students move to Kota annually to prepare for competitive exams such as the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE) for engineering and the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for admission to medical colleges. According to authorities, 20 students preparing for competitive exams in Kota ended their lives so far in 2023 - the highest for any year. Last year, the figure was 15.

"We have installed huge nets in all lobbies and balconies to block students in case they jump from higher floors. These nets can hold weight up to 150 kg and also ensure that students do not get injured," said Vinod Gautam, owner of Vishalakshi Residency, a girls' hostel with over 200 rooms spread across eight floors. He hoped spring coils in fans and these nets will help prevent any untoward incident.

"So far, no suicide has taken place in my hostel but we have to be ready. Parents often panic and such measures will give them confidence as they are far from their children," he said.

Slap row student may be admitted to government school

A Muslim student, who was slapped by his classmates following the orders of a school teacher in Muzaffarnagar, will be admitted to a government primary school provided his family agrees to it, officials of the education department said on Sunday. The department will also facilitate for the transfer of other students studying in Neha Public School in Khabbupur village where the incident took place on Friday, they said.

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