Engineering student in Kodagu dies by suicide; note cites academic pressure

A 19-year-old first-year engineering student in Karnataka’s Kodagu district allegedly died by suicide in her hostel room on Wednesday, with a note reportedly pointing to academic stress as the reason behind her decision.

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The student, identified as Tejaswini, was pursuing a course in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the Halligattu College of Engineering and Technology in Ponnampet. A native of Raichur in northeastern Karnataka, she was the only daughter of Mahantappa.

According to college sources, Tejaswini had celebrated her birthday with friends three days prior. On Wednesday, she distributed sweets once again for those who had missed the earlier celebration. She had returned to her hostel room around 4 pm after attending classes. About half an hour later, a classmate noticed her room was locked from the inside. When repeated knocks and calls went unanswered, the hostel supervisor was alerted. Upon forcibly opening the door, Tejaswini was found unresponsive. A handwritten note recovered nearby reportedly mentioned six academic backlogs and her unwillingness to continue her studies.

Local police from Ponnampet arrived at the hostel shortly after and carried out a preliminary investigation. Officers confirmed that the note pointed to academic pressure as a potential motive, and further inquiries are underway.

Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities as the investigation continues.