A debate on student suicides and allegations of harassment in higher educational institutions brought together Professor Badri Narayan, Vice Chancellor of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, and student activist Deepti Shelar. Addressing questions on institutional accountability and mental health, Professor Badri Narayan pointed out the mission under the National Education Policy to build more humane and supportive university environments. He remarked, ‘Data says that many in 10 years or 20 years, more than thousands, many thousands cases happen in educational institutions’, stressing that faculty and peer groups must remain vigilant to identify distress early. Meanwhile, Deepti Shelar highlighted student unrest over alleged caste discrimination and demanded strict administrative accountability, including the immediate removal of officials accused of pressurizing students. Professor Badri Narayan noted that ongoing police inspections are probing circumstances, warning against rushing to conclusions as investigations examine whether issues stem from societal factors, opinion polarization, or mental health pressures.