UGC Awaits Response from Karnataka Government on PES University Suicides

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has confirmed it is yet to receive a response from the Karnataka government to its letter dated April 1, 2024, which urged action following a string of suicides at PES University. This came to light through an RTI query filed by Sai Ram B, founding editor of NewsTapOne.com and Head of Media at the All India Students Union (AISU).

“The UGC has not received any reply from the Government of Karnataka in response to [its] letter dated 01.04.2024,” the commission noted in its RTI response.

The UGC’s letter, addressed to Karnataka’s Chief Secretary, expressed concern over recurring suicides at the Bengaluru-based university. It highlighted two recent incidents: the death of Surya M. Achar, a third-year B.Tech student, on October 27, 2023, and that of Vignesh K., a BBA student, on January 30, 2024. Both incidents followed the filing of a charge sheet in a high-profile suicide case involving another student, Aditya.

In its communication, the UGC described the situation as alarming and reiterated the need for immediate action to prevent further incidents. It also referred to a petition from AISU addressed to the Prime Minister, which underscored the gravity of the issue and the need for systemic intervention.

PES University, a prominent private institution, has faced growing scrutiny over its handling of student welfare and mental health concerns. The series of suicides has intensified calls for greater accountability and improved support systems in educational institutions.

The UGC’s reminder underscores the urgency of the situation, with student groups, families, and academic leaders urging the Karnataka government to act swiftly to address the crisis.