Author: Vanshika Jain, Teerthankar Mahaveer University
Introduction:
Over the past few years, we have seen many suicides in India by youngsters. Now it is a very serious issue. Young people can experience excessive demands from their families, friends, and academic institutions, which can tragically result in suicide. As the number of juvenile suicides has increased, the figures reveal a dismal reality: there is an increasing need for rapid intervention and support systems. Suicide among minors is a growing global concern, with rates increasing significantly over the past few decades. This issue transcends cultural, social, and economic boundaries, affecting families and communities worldwide. While numerous factors contribute to the tragedy of suicide, such as mental health challenges, bullying, and societal pressures, the legal framework surrounding this crisis is crucial in providing protection, intervention, and support to minors. This article explores the legal dimensions of suicide among minors, focusing on the responsibilities of various stakeholders, the existing laws, and the gaps that need addressing.
What the problem is:
The latest figures reveal a harsh reality about how common suicide is among young people in India. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports that 1000 minors, aged 15 to 18, die by suicide every year without any major reason. The information shows that minors commit suicide very easily and without knowing the facts. Minors commit suicide because of high academic pressure, family expectations, and social pressures, including bullying and peer pressure. The main reason is that parents and teachers put pressure on children to get higher scores. This pressure depressed the children, which is not good for their well-being. Minors are made even more vulnerable by family problems such as abuse, neglect, and unhealthy relationships. These days, minors are depressed very easily by small problems, and because of this depression period, they commit suicide. Furthermore, the widespread impact of social media and the ensuing cyberbullying have been recognized as crucial elements. Inaccessible support services and the stigma associated with mental health issues exacerbate these issues, making it challenging for young people to ask for and get the critical assistance they require. Knowing these contributing factors is essential for creating effective prevention strategies and giving comprehensive support to at-risk youth.
Legal framework:
The Indian Penal Code (IPC) classifies suicide attempts under Section 309, which says that if someone attempts suicide, it will be punishable under this law. It says that committing suicide is punishable with imprisonment. These acts say that everyone has the right to equality but does not have the right to finish their life.
The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, on the other hand, signifies a substantial change in India’s perspective on mental health. This act provided for mental health issues. It supports people mentally or emotionally. If someone is depressed, then they help people come out of depression. It develops a positive environment around people and safeguards them from a negative environment. By providing support and encouragement, they discourage people from committing suicide. These acts reduce suicides in India. Many people are safe in their lives.
The Parental and Guardian Role:
Parents have to observe their behaviour, moods, friend circle, and minor daily habits regularly. They have to maintain open communication with their children and ensure that their children will never hesitate to tell them about their problems. Parents and guardians have to communicate with school teachers and counsellors for their children’s well-being. They ensure their children live in a positive environment and atmosphere. It is essential to check on the mental health and wellbeing of teenagers. It is essential that children be emotionally attached to their parents only, not to others. Parents have a duty to listen to their children properly and never give judgment on every matter. They need to understand their children. They have to give freedom of expression to their teenagers.
Strategies for Prevention:
To protect teenagers, India’s approach to combating minor suicide incorporates a combination of legal safeguards and preventive initiatives. Currently, communities, schools, and mental health services are spearheading programs as part of preventive strategies. Schools have a critical role to play in raising awareness among students and parents about mental health concerns and suicide prevention through the implementation of educational programs. These courses frequently cover coping strategies, how to identify warning signals of distress, and where to get assistance. In addition to these educational initiatives, community-based initiatives offer support networks and raise local awareness of mental health issues. Mental health services make a valuable contribution by providing minor-specific psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and counselling.
The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 provides protection to the children. These acts are provided to encourage and provide proper care for children. This act is under Indian law. These acts protect children from child abuse and neglect. These acts also provided for protecting the rights of minors.
These steps are not sufficient; parents, schools, friends, and relatives also have to create a positive environment for each other. These steps help others express their problems. Also, it will reduce depression and provide mental support. Mental support is very necessary to reduce depression. These steps are necessary to reduce the suicide rate among teenagers in India.
Final Thoughts:
At the end, to stop the suicides in India, parents and guardians played a crucial role. It is important to encourage minors and develop communication with children. Teachers must observe the student and report to the parents for the well-being of the children. If anyone sees the depressed children, then they should talk politely and encourage the minor. Children need full support from their family, friends, and relatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps can be taken to help prevent suicide among minors?
Promote open communication, ensure access to mental health support, and foster strong relationships with trusted adults. Early intervention is crucial, so seek professional help if warning signs are present. Supportive environments and active listening can make a significant difference.
What factors increase the risk of suicide among minors?
Mental health issues, stressful life events (like bullying or trauma), family conflict, social isolation, and struggles with identity (such as sexual orientation or gender identity) can all increase the risk. Exposure to suicidal behaviour in others also raises this risk.
References:
Care and Protection of Children Act, 2015
The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Youth_suicide
