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A viral video from Kuta shows hostel ceiling fans covered with iron grilles to prevent suicides, sparking debate about deeper mental health issues
A widespread clip reveals ceiling fans in student housing enclosed within iron grilles (Image-X/@Nalanda_index)
A now-viral video from the Kota hostel has drawn widespread attention online, putting India’s coaching capital in the spotlight. The clip, shared by Instagram account @rvcjinsta, shows ceiling fans in student hostels locked inside heavy iron grilles, a measure being considered to prevent suicides.
The footage quickly gained traction online, sparking concern and debate. Kota, known for preparing thousands of aspirants for competitive exams like IIT-JEE and NEET, has witnessed an alarming rise in student deaths in recent years. In response, authorities and hostel operators have been exploring various preventive measures.
Among the initiatives introduced are modifications to ceiling fans, including spring-loaded devices designed to detach under excessive weight, thus reducing the risk of self-harm.
While the video that went viral suggests metal grilles were installed around the fans, there is no official confirmation that such confinement systems have been implemented on a large scale in hostels. Authorities have largely focused on redesigning the fans to enhance safety rather than shutting them down completely.
Beyond physical interventions, the local administration also stressed the importance of mental health support. Measures such as regular counseling sessions, close monitoring of the emotional well-being of students, and stronger support systems within the hostels have been encouraged to address the root causes of stress among aspirants.
Despite these efforts, the viral clip sparked mixed reactions online, with many questioning whether structural reforms alone can effectively address the complex mental health crisis.
“They will do everything, but they will not improve the education system,” one user said.
Another said: “BBQs can be a good alternative 🥲.”
“Students might think of several other ways 🤷♀️,” a third user said.
A fourth user said: “Getting stuck on the grill. Grill turns off. Broke a rib. Gets stuck on the fan again. 2 step verification.”
Another said: “Therefore, it has been proven that Kota produces suicide bombers, not engineers and doctors.”
Another said: “Installing an air conditioner is very worrying.”
“How do you clean the fan now?” commented another.
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