Maithili Sonwane Death Raises Concern Over NEET UG 2026 Cancellation Impact
Latur Student Death Raises Concern
The death of 18-year-old NEET aspirant Maithili Ashok Sonwane from Gondegaon village in Maharashtra’s Latur district has raised fresh concern over the pressure faced by students after the NEET UG 2026 cancellation. According to police, Maithili allegedly died by suicide on the morning of May 16, 2026.
Her father, Ashok Vitthal Sonwane, a farmer, submitted a statement to the police claiming that his daughter was under severe mental stress after the medical entrance exam was cancelled over alleged paper leak concerns.
Family Links Death To NEET UG 2026 Row
Maithili had appeared for NEET UG 2026 on May 3 and hoped to become a doctor. Her father said she had prepared well and believed she had performed satisfactorily in the exam. However, after the National Testing Agency cancelled the test on May 12 following paper leak allegations, she reportedly became anxious about her future.
Police have registered an accidental death report and started a probe into the family’s claim. The NEET UG 2026 re-exam is scheduled for June 21, with nearly 23 lakh candidates registered for the test. The Latur NEET aspirant's death has again highlighted the emotional burden on students during major competitive exam controversies. If anyone is facing emotional distress, they should reach out to family, friends, or a mental health helpline immediately.
