The Supreme Court of India has expressed deep concern over the alarming increase in child suicides across the country. Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud emphasized the gravity of the issue, describing it as a significant social problem that demands urgent attention.
During the proceedings, CJI Chandrachud ordered the Union Health Ministry to submit an affidavit detailing the measures and initiatives undertaken to prevent suicides in India. This directive came in response to a petition filed by lawyer Gaurav Bansal, who cited a startling revelation from a Delhi Police RTI reply. According to the reply, between 2014 and 2018, more than 400 students under the age of 18 took their own lives in Delhi alone, highlighting a distressing trend.
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“This issue is deeply concerning and requires immediate intervention from all stakeholders,” remarked CJI Chandrachud, underscoring the need for robust preventive measures and support systems for vulnerable children.
The petition filed by Bansal has brought to light the tragic consequences of mental health challenges faced by young individuals, urging the judiciary to intervene and press for decisive action from the government.
“We cannot ignore the fact that our children are increasingly vulnerable to mental health crises leading to such extreme measures,” Bansal stated, advocating for comprehensive policies aimed at early intervention and support.
The Supreme Court’s intervention marks a significant step towards addressing the systemic issues contributing to youth suicides, urging authorities to prioritize mental health awareness and support mechanisms in educational institutions and communities.
Whereas, the court awaits the government’s response, the nation remains attentive to the measures proposed to safeguard the well-being of its youngest citizens against the scourge of suicide.
