UPSC Aspirant’s Suicide Note Brings Attention To Exam Pressure, High Rents

The Civil Services Examinations have long been a subject of intense discussion due to the extreme dedication, focus, and patience they require from candidates. Recently, the examination system has been in the spotlight for troubling reasons. In Delhi’s Old Rajinder Nagar, three UPSC aspirants tragically died in a coaching center basement, prompting protests and scrutiny of similar establishments in the capital.

Days before this incident, 26-year-old UPSC aspirant Anjali Gopnarayan took her own life in her rented room in Old Rajinder Nagar. She left behind a note revealing the harsh realities of the mental distress faced by students preparing for this exam. In her three-page letter, Anjali expressed her ongoing struggles, apologized to her parents, and criticized the exploitation by landlords. She also called for reduced exam-related scams and drew a smiley in the letter.

Originally from Akola district in Maharashtra, Anjali was found hanging in her room on July 21.

“I am sorry mummy papa. I am really very fed with the life now there are just problems and issues only, no peace,” she began in her letter. She continued, “I tried every possible way to get rid of this so-called depression but can’t overcome it; went to the doctor, but my mental health is still not improving. PG and hostel rent should also be decreased, these people are just looting money from students and not everyone can afford it. It’s becoming very hectic for me now to handle life’s problems, thus is it now.”

In her note, Anjali also requested her family to donate her organs. She expressed her desire to pass the UPSC in her first attempt but described feeling “unstable” despite the support from her family. “And you both and everyone supported me but I can’t heal until I help myself and I am very helpless now so just want to go happily now and be in peace,” she wrote.

Anjali thanked her aunt and uncle for their support and mentioned that her death would become “breaking news.” She “requested” the government to consider allowing euthanasia, acknowledging that while suicide is not a solution, many people may wish to end their lives on their own terms.

She urged the government to address exam scams and improve employment opportunities, stating, “So many youths are struggling for jobs. It was my life and I have right to do anything so no need of making any fuss out of it.” Additionally, she advocated for a reduction in PG and hostel rents, citing that landlords were “looting” students and making life unaffordable for many.

Her friend Shweta reported that the rent at their residence had increased from Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000, while Shweta was paying Rs 12,000 for her basement room.

The Delhi Police have confirmed that they are investigating the matter.