NEET aspirant, ‘stressed after multiple attempts to clear test’, dies after fall from Indore building

“Avantika was under stress after the NEET examination controversy. She had failed to clear the exam three times and was not behaving normally on Thursday. She barely spoke and answered most questions only in yes or no,” said her elder sister, Dr Sapna Maurya.

Police investigation

Police are investigating whether the fall was accidental or linked to other circumstances. Police said further action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation and statements recorded from family members and other witnesses.

“We are analysing the phone, call details and evidence from the spot. At this stage, it is too early to conclude whether it was an accident or whether there was any other reason behind the fall,” a police officer said.

According to police, Avantika was living with her elder sister while preparing for NEET. Around 11.30 pm on Thursday, she was speaking on the phone with a relative when she walked up the staircase towards the terrace. Moments later, she fell from the upper floors of the building.

Residents rushed out after hearing a loud crash and alerted police and emergency services. Family members and neighbours initially took her to a local hospital. Owing to the severity of her injuries, she was later referred to Maharaja Yeshwantrao Hospital (MYH), where doctors declared her dead at around 5 am on Friday.

Avantika was the daughter of Dr Banshilal Maurya, a medical officer posted in Bhikangaon in Khargone district. The family is originally from Dhar district. Dr Maurya had arrived in Indore just five days ago for training at MY Hospital and was present in the flat when the incident occurred.

Family members said Avantika had been struggling emotionally after repeated attempts to clear NEET.

This year’s NEET-UG exam was originally held on May 3, but that was later cancelled amid allegations of a question paper leak. The retest is scheduled to be held on June 21.