Patna: A Class 10 student allegedly died by suicide after she was denied entry to her examination centre for arriving late, triggering outrage and debate over exam rules and accountability.
The deceased, identified as Komal Kumari from Kharjama village in Masaurhi, had travelled a day earlier to a relative’s home in Maharajchak to appear for her matriculation examination scheduled Tuesday at a centre in Barni, about six kilometres away. According to local sources, the reporting deadline was 9:00 am, but she reached at around 9:10 am and was refused entry as the gates had been closed.
Witnesses said the student repeatedly pleaded with officials to allow her inside, stating that the exam would begin at 9:30 am and that she was only a few minutes late. Despite her requests, she was not permitted to enter and returned home distressed.
Police said she later left the house and was subsequently found critically injured near railway tracks between Taregana and Masaurhi Court stations. She was rushed to a hospital but did not survive.
The incident has raised questions among residents and on social media about whether rigid enforcement of entry rules should allow for discretion in exceptional circumstances.
Komal was the eldest among three siblings. Her father, Mantu Yadav, works as a labourer outside the state. Police from the local station circulated her photograph on social media for identification, after which villagers recognised her and informed the family. Her mother reportedly broke down on receiving the news.
Authorities have not yet issued a detailed statement on the incident.
If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, support is available through national or local helplines in India such as AASRA (24/7: 91-9820466726) or by contacting local emergency services.
