‘I wanted to be someone’: UPSC aspirant ends life, leaves 20-page note with motivational quotes

Madhya Pradesh: A 25-year-old woman preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination died by suicide in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, leaving behind a 20-page handwritten note filled with motivational quotes and personal reflections.

The woman, identified as Asha Uikey, was residing in rented accommodation in the Hiranagar police station area. She had been facing emotional and academic stress due to repeated failures in her attempts to clear the prestigious UPSC exam, according to police.

Her last words, written on paper, read: “No one becomes an IAS just like that, wake up from sleep now you have to read.” Police officials said her room had motivational posters and quotes pasted on the walls, including one that read, “Wake up from sleep.”

The tragedy unfolded just days before her mother was scheduled to visit, having recently learned about her daughter's struggles. Concerned over unanswered phone calls, the family had contacted the landlord, who discovered her unresponsive.

Inside her room, police recovered an exercise notebook in which Asha had written 20 pages of motivational messages and apologies to her parents and loved ones. According to investigators, she expressed her desire to “be someone” and achieve her dreams quickly.

Authorities confirmed that she had been under visible stress in recent days. Her case adds to growing concerns over the mental health of aspirants preparing for India’s most competitive exams.

Police are continuing their investigation and have urged students facing emotional difficulties to seek help and support.

(If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek professional help. You're not alone, and support is available. Talking to a mental health professional can make a difference.)