‘Himmat mat haaro’: Zeeshan Ayyub calls student suicides after NEET paper leak forced re-test ‘disturbing’

Zeeshan Ayyub Calls for Student Resilience Amid NEET Paper Leak Suicides

Himmat mat haaro – “Himmat mat haaro” – Zeeshan Ayyub, actor and social commentator, has raised alarm over the rising number of student suicides linked to the NEET-UG 2026 exam paper leak. The incident, which forced a re-test, has left at least 11 students dead across India within 46 days, according to police records, family accounts, and media reports. Ayyub’s poignant message, shared in an Instagram video, resonates deeply with the emotional burden faced by young aspirants in the wake of the disruption.

The actor urged students to remain steadfast, stating, “Because of NEET, so many students have died by suicide, and that is disturbing. I want to tell the students not to lose faith. Nothing is end of the world. There is more to life. To speak up, to demand your rights, and so on, that is more important.” His words emphasize the need for perseverance and mental resilience, especially as the CBI investigates the leak and the exam is rescheduled for June 21. Ayyub also encouraged students to seek emotional support, reminding them that counsellors are available to help during tough times.

The Ripple Effect of a Leaked Paper

The NEET-UG 2026 cancellation followed the discovery that the exam paper had been compromised two days before the original date. Questions appeared on mobile devices as early as May 1, creating a panic among students who had spent months preparing for the test. This is the second time in two years that the NEET has faced such scrutiny, highlighting a pattern of growing pressure on candidates. With 2.27 million students already taking the exam in over 550 cities, the disruption has added to the anxiety, particularly for those facing re-examination.

While the CBI probes the leak, the focus remains on the human cost. Recent reports from Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh reveal that the emotional toll has escalated, with students grappling with the fear of failure and the stigma of retaking the exam. Ayyub’s call to action, though personal, reflects a broader concern about how systemic issues can lead to individual crises. His message aligns with the growing movement advocating for mental health awareness in academic settings.

Stories Behind the Statistics

This week, two more NEET candidates were found dead in Uttarakhand and Rajasthan, adding to the list of tragedies attributed to the leak. In Dehradun, a 23-year-old woman was discovered in her room with a handwritten note expressing despair. Meanwhile, in Sikar, Rajasthan, a 22-year-old aspirant died before his third attempt at the exam. These incidents underscore the deep psychological impact of the delayed test, as students face the possibility of repeated efforts to secure their future.

Some families report that the students had been struggling with stress for weeks, unable to focus on studies or maintain their confidence. The leak not only disrupted their preparation but also intensified the pressure to perform. Ayyub’s Instagram video, which garnered widespread attention, became a rallying point for students and parents alike, emphasizing the importance of emotional support and the need to keep moving forward despite setbacks.

Voices of Concern and Support

Psychologists and educators have expressed worry over the growing number of suicides, linking them to the stress of competitive exams and the lack of adequate mental health resources. “The leak created a perfect storm of uncertainty, which amplified existing anxieties,” said one expert, highlighting the role of academic pressure in mental health crises. Students who failed to secure a place in the initial test now face the challenge of retaking it, with many questioning the fairness of the system.

Amid the crisis, organizations like Connecting in Pune have stepped up to offer mindfulness-based active listening support. The NGO’s helpline, 1800-209-4353 (toll-free) and 9922001122, is now a vital resource for students in distress. Ayyub’s message, “Himmat mat haaro,” serves as a reminder that resilience is key, and that setbacks should not define a student’s journey. His advocacy has sparked conversations about the need for better mental health infrastructure in education.

A Call for Systemic Change

As the NEET-UG 2026 reschedule unfolds, the incident has reignited debates about the fairness of entrance exams and their impact on students’ mental well-being. Critics argue that the pressure to succeed in such high-stakes tests can lead to burnout, with the leak acting as a catalyst for despair. Ayyub’s comments, while heartfelt, also reflect a growing demand for reforms to reduce the emotional burden on aspirants.

With the CBI investigation ongoing, the focus is shifting to understanding the root causes of the crisis. Students, parents, and educators are calling for measures to support those affected, including counseling services and flexible exam policies. “The phrase ‘Himmat mat haaro’ encapsulates the spirit of perseverance needed in these times,” said a teacher in Delhi, adding that the incident has highlighted the importance of mental health awareness in academic environments. The hope is that these efforts will help prevent further tragedies.

Zeeshan Ayyub’s message has become a symbol of hope for students facing the aftermath of the NEET paper leak. By encouraging resilience and highlighting the importance of standing up for one’s rights, he has amplified the voices of those affected. The emotional toll of the exam disruption is evident, but so is the determination of students to continue their journey. As the rescheduled test approaches, the call to “Himmat mat haaro” remains a powerful reminder of the strength that lies in perseverance.