Kanpur BTech gold medallist dies by suicide after 50 failed govt job attempts

A 24-year-old BTech gold medallist died by suicide in Kanpur after failing to secure a government job despite 50 attempts. Police recovered a handwritten note that read: 'Sorry papa, I tried'.

The Incident

The man, identified as a resident of Kanpur, was found hanging in his room on Friday evening. He had completed his BTech from a local college and was a gold medallist in his batch.

Family members told police he had been preparing for government job exams for the past three years. He appeared for over 50 exams but could not clear any of them.

The Suicide Note

The suicide note, addressed to his father, said: 'Sorry papa, I tried. I am not able to do this anymore. Please forgive me.'

Police have sent the note for forensic analysis. No other text was found on his body or in the room.

Family's Statement

The victim's father, a small shopkeeper, said his son was under immense pressure. 'He was a bright student. He got a gold medal in college. But government jobs are very tough. He tried many times but failed. He stopped talking to us in the last few months,' the father told reporters.

Relatives said the man had also applied for private sector jobs but did not get any offers. He had stopped leaving the house for the past month.

Broader Concerns

The case has once again brought attention to the mental health crisis among India's educated youth. Psychologists say repeated failure in competitive exams can lead to severe depression and anxiety.

In 2025, at least 15 similar cases were reported across Uttar Pradesh alone. Activists have called for better counselling and support systems for job seekers.

Police have registered a case of unnatural death and are investigating. No foul play is suspected.

The incident has triggered a debate on social media about the pressure to secure government jobs and the lack of opportunities in the private sector. Many users expressed condolences and demanded better mental health resources for students.

Authorities have not yet announced any specific measures in response to this case.