Class 10 Student Dies by Suicide in Rajasthan Amid Parental Concerns Over Smoking

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An 18-year-old Class 10 student, Atharv Saxena, was found dead by suicide at his rented residence in the Pratap Nagar area of Kota on Friday night, July 18, 2025. Police suspect that constant “nagging” from his parents regarding alleged smoking habits may have contributed to the tragic step. The incident has cast a somber light on the pressures faced by adolescents in the region.

Atharv, originally from Bundi city, had been living in Kota with his mother and younger brother. His father, who operates a grocery shop in Bundi, visited the family weekly. Atharv was a student at a private school in Kota, a city widely known as a coaching hub for competitive examinations, often associated with intense academic pressure.

According to Circle Inspector Devesh Bhardwaj, police were informed of the incident after Atharv was found hanging from a ceiling fan. He was immediately transported to MBS hospital, where medical professionals pronounced him deceased. A note was recovered from his room. While the note did not explicitly blame anyone for his decision, its contents reportedly indicated his distress over persistent parental admonishments concerning his suspected smoking. Police stated that Atharv, in the note, maintained he did not smoke.

The body was released to the family following a post-mortem examination on Saturday morning. A case has been registered under Section 194 (unnatural deaths) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

This tragic event comes amidst broader concerns about adolescent well-being in India, particularly in highly competitive academic environments. While the immediate trigger appears to be family dynamics related to perceived behavioral issues, the incident highlights the complex emotional landscape that young individuals navigate. Studies indicate that factors such as family problems, academic stress, and mental health challenges are significant contributors to youth suicides in India.

The prevalence of tobacco use among adolescents in Rajasthan has been a subject of ongoing concern. While overall tobacco consumption among 13-15 year olds in the state is lower than the national average, surveys still indicate that a notable percentage of students in this age group use tobacco products. The age of initiation for tobacco use often falls within early teenage years, and parental disapproval is a common response to such habits.

As the community grapples with this loss, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of open communication within families and the need for support systems for young people facing emotional distress.