AMU student dies by suicide in women's hostel; 'tragic wake-up call' says students' union

An Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) student allegedly died by suicide by hanging herself in hostel room, as per various media reports. The second-year BA student was reportedly studying in the Abdullah Women’s College. Police and AMU administration are investigating the incident to ascertain the reason behind the step.

Hailing from Agvanpur area of Moradabad, the student was residing in Mumtaz hostel, AMU proctor Vasim Ali told the Navbharat Times. After the warden informed the administration that the room has not opened since Saturday morning, the college staff broke open the door and found the student hanging, he was reported as saying.

During the investigation, it was revealed that she was alone in her room and was not seen outside for hours, as per an Amar Ujala report. Her roommate had gone home for the Diwali holidays. The deceased student’s brother, who’s also an AMU law student, had a conversation with her on call around 7 pm on October 24 and since then there had been no communication with her, the report said.

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Mental health awareness

Terming it a wake-up call for the campus, Mohd Salman Imtiaz, outgoing president of AMU Students’ Union, said that the union is launching a mental health awareness campaign for students across all hostels. Imtiaz argued that the group has been trying to introduce the mental health programmes in the campus but the administration has not been paying heed to the proposals. Asserting not to wait any longer, he asked students to join the mission.

“Yesterday, a heartbreaking incident shook the Aligarh Muslim University community — a young girl ended her life by suicide in her hostel room. This is not just a tragedy, it’s a reminder of the silent battles so many students are fighting behind closed doors,” AMU students’ union president said and added, “This incident is both deeply painful and alarming. It calls for urgent reflection and collective action. Mental health is not a luxury; it’s a lifeline.”

If you know someone – friend or family member – at risk of suicide, please reach out to them. Those in distress or having suicidal thoughts or tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling 9820466726 or visiting AASRA’s official website or can call iCALL on 9152987821. Here are some more helpline numbers of suicide prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.