India, a land of diverse cultures and economic disparities, has witnessed a disturbing trend of families resorting to suicide pacts, often driven by debt and, in some cases, influenced by superstition. These tragic events expose the vulnerabilities of individuals and families facing financial hardship and the complexities of mental health issues intertwined with societal beliefs.

One of the primary drivers behind these drastic decisions is crippling debt. Agriculture, a mainstay for a significant portion of India's rural population, is particularly susceptible. Farmers often find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle of borrowing to finance cultivation, facing crop failures due to unpredictable weather, and struggling with low remuneration for their produce. This leads to mounting debt, often from private money lenders charging exorbitant interest rates. A Supreme Court panel revealed that over 400,000 farmers and agricultural laborers have died by suicide in the past three decades, a grim testament to the escalating challenges faced by the sector.

The burden of debt isn't limited to rural areas. Urban families, too, grapple with financial strain due to job losses, business failures, and rising expenses. A recent incident in Panchkula, Haryana, where seven members of a family from Dehradun were found dead in a car, highlights this issue. The family, burdened by debt from a failed tour and travel business, reportedly took their own lives. Suicide notes recovered from the scene revealed their financial distress, depression, and sense of hopelessness. Similarly, in Hyderabad, a family of four was found dead, with a suicide note citing prolonged joblessness, health issues, and the resulting financial stress as the reason for their extreme step.

While debt is a major catalyst, superstition can also play a role in these tragedies. In some instances, individuals believe that ending their lives during auspicious times or in specific places will lead to salvation or a better afterlife. A man in Bengaluru, influenced by the belief that dying during Deepavali would absolve his sins and grant him moksha, died by suicide. The Delhi mass suicide in 2018, where eleven members of a family committed suicide, also pointed to the role of superstition, with religious notes found at the scene referencing salvation and auspicious days for ending life.

The alarming rise in suicide rates across India underscores the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data reveals a concerning trend, with the suicide rate reaching a 56-year high in 2022. While family problems and illness are major contributing factors, debt, poverty, and unemployment also play a significant role.

Several measures can be taken to address this crisis. Financial literacy programs can empower individuals to manage their debts effectively and avoid falling into debt traps. Access to affordable credit and institutional loans can reduce reliance on exploitative private lenders. Mental health support and counseling services are crucial to provide individuals and families with the emotional support they need to cope with stress and depression. The Surat police, recognizing this need, launched helpline numbers to assist people with suicidal thoughts, offering both phone and in-person counseling.

Furthermore, addressing societal beliefs and superstitions through education and awareness campaigns is essential. Promoting scientific temper and critical thinking can help counter harmful beliefs that drive individuals to take extreme steps. Several states in India have enacted anti-superstition laws to combat exploitative practices and protect vulnerable individuals.

The tragedies of debt-ridden families and individuals succumbing to superstition highlight the multifaceted challenges facing India. Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that combines economic empowerment, mental health support, and social reform. By creating a more supportive and equitable society, India can strive to prevent such heartbreaking events and ensure that no one feels so hopeless that death seems like the only way out.