The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition that sought an independent inquiry into the recent student suicides at National Law University (NLU) Delhi, stating that the university has already taken sufficient measures to address the crisis.
The petition, filed by Aditya Singh Tomar, had called for urgent implementation of mental health policies compliant with national guidelines and University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, following the tragic deaths of three students in September. Tomar’s demands included the establishment of around-the-clock mental health counseling services, peer support networks, and regular assessments of student mental health.
Justices Navin Chawla and Shalinder Kaur, in their ruling, noted, “Having considered the above, we are of the opinion that adequate steps have been taken by the respondent no. 2 (NLU Delhi) for the present. We do not, therefore, deem it appropriate to issue further directions in this petition at this stage.” They left open the possibility for the petitioner to return to court if it is deemed that the university’s measures are found lacking.
During the hearing, NLU Delhi’s representation argued that an exhaustive investigation had been conducted into the incidents, which found no direct links to the university’s curriculum or administration. Following an emergency meeting of the University’s Governing Council on October 19, several preventative measures were adopted to enhance early detection and intervention in mental health issues among students.
Despite the court’s decision to dismiss the plea, the dialogue concerning mental health support in educational institutions continues, highlighting the ongoing need for effective measures to support student well-being.
The case saw representation from Central Government Standing Counsel Kirtiman Singh, Advocates Waize, Maulik Khurana, Ranjeev Khatana, and Varun Pratap for the Union of India, with Standing Counsel Sanjay Vashishtha and Advocates Vasudha Saini and Harshita Rai appearing for NLU Delhi.
