“Sorry for Being a Burden”: NEET Aspirant’s Tragic Death Leaves Family in Shock

A heartbreaking incident in Dehradun has once again drawn attention to the immense emotional pressure faced by students preparing for competitive examinations. A 23-year-old NEET aspirant , who had been preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) , allegedly died by suicide at her residence in the Patel Nagar area, leaving behind a note expressing guilt and apologising to her parents.

According to police officials, the young woman, identified as Riya Kumari , was found dead in her room on Tuesday morning. The incident came to light when her mother went to wake her up for breakfast around 10.30 am. When repeated calls went unanswered and the door remained locked, the family became concerned. Her father was informed, and together they forced the door open, only to discover a devastating scene inside.

Police later recovered a handwritten note from the room. In the note, Riya reportedly apologised to her family, describing herself as a burden and blaming her own "incompetence" for her struggles. The emotional message ended with expressions of love and regret, leaving her family shattered.

Investigators said there were no immediate indications that she had been suffering from depression. Family members told authorities that she appeared focused on her studies and had been preparing diligently for the upcoming NEET re-examination scheduled for June 21 . The examination had been announced after the earlier test was cancelled.

Riya was considered an academically bright student. She had scored more than 96 per cent in her Class 12 examinations and remained determined to secure admission to a medical college. Sources close to the family said this was her third attempt at clearing NEET . While illness had affected her first attempt, she improved significantly during her second attempt, reportedly scoring around 400 marks .

Alongside her medical entrance preparation, she was also pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree and was in the final semester of the course. Those who knew her said she felt optimistic about her recent performance and was hopeful about her future.

Her father, a Kargil War veteran , informed police that the family had always tried to support her aspirations. Just days before the incident, they had installed an air conditioner in her room after she complained about the intense summer heat.

While the exact reasons behind the tragedy remain under investigation, police believe academic frustration and exam-related stress may have played a role. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the silent emotional struggles many students face while chasing highly competitive career goals.

The loss has left relatives, friends and neighbours mourning a young life that held immense promise, ambition and the dream of becoming a doctor.