Kota/New Delhi: In a disconcerting turn of events, a JEE aspirant from Uttar Pradesh, Piyush Kapasia, has gone missing in Kota, Rajasthan. This incident marks the second case of disappearance within a week in the city, which is renowned as India’s coaching hub.
Piyush, who had been staying in a hostel in Kota’s Indra Vihar for the past two years, was last seen on February 13. His father, Maheshchand, revealed that Piyush spoke to his mother on Tuesday morning, after which he inexplicably ceased answering the family’s calls. Subsequently, he switched off his phone, leaving his worried family in distress.
This recent disappearance follows another concerning case. Rachit Sondhya, a student hailing from Madhya Pradesh, went missing in Kota just last Sunday. Rachit, also a JEE aspirant, had been residing in a hostel in Jawahar Nagar. A security camera captured the last known sighting of Rachit, showing him entering the forest area near the Garadiya Mahadev temple. Police have recovered his belongings, including his bag and keys, from the same forested region.
Authorities are actively conducting a search operation to trace both missing students. With over 2 lakh students flocking to Kota annually to prepare for competitive exams like JEE and NEET, the safety and well-being of these young aspirants remain a top priority. Last year, a surge in student suicides prompted the central government to issue guidelines aimed at alleviating the immense pressure faced by coaching students. These directives emphasized safeguarding students from depression and stress.
Experts about Students in Kota
Experts point to the intense pressure faced by JEE aspirants in Kota, often described as a “pressure cooker” environment. The high stakes of entrance exams, coupled with isolation from family and friends, can take a toll on mental health. Students struggling with stress and anxiety lack adequate support systems, raising concerns.
Following the disappearances, calls are growing for improved mental health resources and counseling services for students in Kota. Parents and educators are urging institutions to create a more supportive environment that prioritizes well-being alongside academic performance.
As the search continues, the entire educational community remains on edge, hoping for the safe return of these bright young minds. Our thoughts are with the families of Piyush Kapasia and Rachit Sondhya during this distressing time.
Note: This news article is based on publicly available information and does not include speculation or unsubstantiated claims. It highlights the ongoing investigation and the broader concerns about student well-being in Kota.
