Tragic Murder of Delhi University Student Highlights Youth Mental Health Crisis

In a deeply distressing incident, an 18-year-old girl, a student of Delhi University’s School of Open Learning, was murdered by her classmate and close friend, Arshkrit Singh. The tragedy unfolded in Delhi’s Sanjay Van area, where the girl’s body was discovered. According to police reports, the crime was driven by jealousy over the girl’s friendships with other boys. After committing the heinous act, the accused attempted to destroy the evidence by setting the body on fire. He has since been arrested.
What Happened?
The victim, an ambitious and promising student, had been missing, which led to concern among her family and friends. Her body was later found in a secluded forested area, and investigation quickly pointed to someone known to her—her classmate and confidant. Arshkrit Singh confessed to the murder, citing feelings of jealousy and possessiveness.
Mental Health, Possessiveness & Toxic Attachments
This case shines a spotlight on a growing concern among young people—emotional instability and toxic relationship dynamics. The suspect allegedly couldn’t handle the idea of the girl having male friends, which pushed him to a violent act. This is not an isolated incident; we increasingly see how emotional immaturity and lack of coping mechanisms lead to tragic outcomes.
Important Questions:
- Are we addressing mental health adequately in our education system?
- Are young adults being taught how to handle rejection, jealousy, and emotional boundaries?
- Why is there still a stigma around seeking help for emotional struggles?
Campus Safety Concerns
Delhi University has seen a surge in crimes in and around campus areas. This raises alarms about the safety protocols and whether enough is being done to protect students—especially women—from such threats.
DU and other universities must reconsider campus safety measures, ensure better student support systems, and make mental health services easily accessible.
What Needs to Change?
- Mental Health Education: Introduce mandatory modules in colleges on emotional intelligence and mental well-being.
- Counseling Access: Ensure every student knows how and where to access free, confidential counseling.
- Gender Sensitization: Educate youth on healthy relationships, consent, and personal boundaries.
- Early Intervention: Train teachers and peers to recognize red flags in behavior and emotional distress.
A Wake-Up Call
This murder is not just a crime—it is a wake-up call. We must reflect as a society on how we are nurturing the minds of our youth. Are we giving them the tools to manage anger, frustration, love, and rejection in healthy ways? Are our institutions taking their safety and mental wellness seriously?
Final Thoughts
No family should ever have to endure the pain of losing their child to such violence. It is time we rise above “awareness” and move into action. The emotional education of youth is just as important as academic learning. Let’s begin now—before it’s too late for another young life.