Eighteen-Year-Old NEET Aspirant Ends Life After Exam Cancellation, Father Alleges Paper Leak Triggered Tragedy

मुख्य बातें
- •Maithili Ashok Sonwane, an 18-year-old from Latur, Maharashtra, died by suicide on May 16, 2026, allegedly due to mental stress caused by the cancellation of NEET UG 2026
- •The NEET UG 2026 exam, held on May 3, 2026, was cancelled on May 12, 2026, following allegations of a paper leak; a re-exam is scheduled for June 21, 2026
- •The deceased aspired to become a doctor and had reportedly prepared well for the exam, but the cancellation left her anxious and distressed
- •Police have registered an accidental death report and are investigating the father’s claim; nearly 23 lakh candidates had registered for the exam
An 18-year-old girl from Latur district in Maharashtra died by suicide on May 16, 2026, her father has alleged, stating that the cancellation of the NEET UG 2026 examination following a paper leak caused severe mental stress and led her to take the extreme step. The incident has once again highlighted the emotional and psychological toll that exam irregularities can have on young students, especially those from rural backgrounds with limited support systems.


