Kota has become infamous for student suicides caused by extreme academic pressure in recent years. Now, the same stress has led to a shocking crime far from the city.

A 20-year-old man, who dropped out of a Kota coaching institute last August, attacked his parents with an iron rod. As a result, he killed his mother and left his father critically injured, police said on Wednesday.

A Heated Argument Turned Deadly

On Monday night, Satyam Katre’s father stopped him from using his mobile phone. Consequently, Satyam lost his temper and attacked both parents with an iron rod. He struck them on the head and face, leaving them bleeding. Immediately after the attack, he called the police himself.

Authorities arrested him and charged him with murder and attempted murder. Meanwhile, his father is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Gondia district.

Extreme Exam Pressure Took a Toll

During questioning, Satyam admitted he could not handle the pressure of preparing for NEET. Every year, 2.3 million students take the exam, but only 1.3 million pass. As a result, many aspirants experience overwhelming stress.

Kota, India’s coaching hub, attracts thousands of students preparing for competitive exams. The test-prep industry there is worth ₹10,000 crore. However, students often struggle with long study hours, homesickness, and limited recreation.

Suicides in Kota Remain a Serious Concern

Over the years, student suicides in Kota have continued despite efforts to prevent them. The numbers speak for themselves:

2023 – 20 deaths
2022 – 15 deaths
2019 – 18 deaths
2018 – 20 deaths
2017 – 7 deaths
2016 – 17 deaths
2015 – 18 deaths

Although local officials and the state government have taken measures to reduce suicides, they have achieved only limited success.

Family Expectations Created Conflict

According to the investigation, Satyam’s parents frequently pressured him to focus on NEET. They strongly wanted him to become a doctor. However, Satyam was unwilling to pursue medicine.

On Monday night, his father took away his phone. In response, Satyam became furious and attacked his parents.

“He was under huge pressure and seemed downcast,” said his uncle, Arvind Katre.

Following the attack, Satyam called the police. His parents were rushed to a hospital in Waraseoni and later transferred to Gondia. Unfortunately, his mother, Pratibha, died on Tuesday night. Meanwhile, his father remains in critical condition.