MANDYA: In a deeply distressing tragedy from Koothanahalli village in Nanjangud taluk, a 20-year-old student and her mother died by suicide within hours of each other, sending shockwaves through the local community.

The victims have been identified as Priya (20) and her mother Mahadevamma (45), wife of Jayaram from Kottanahalli village. Priya, who had performed well in her second PUC exams, was reportedly devastated over her low scores in the Common Entrance Test (CET) and National Eligibility Test (NET).

Unable to cope with the disappointment, Priya died by suicide by hanging herself in a barn. Her mother Mahadevamma, who discovered her daughter’s body, was overwhelmed by grief and also took her own life in the same spot.

The double suicide has left the community reeling, with villagers expressing sorrow over the mounting academic pressure on students and its devastating consequences on families.

Authorities have registered a case and are investigating the circumstances further.