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A 19-year-old has been arrested for allegedly killing his father following repeated arguments over studies.
Experts say unmanaged stress and family pressure can have consequences.
A crime in Lucknow has once again raised concerns about the impact of extreme academic pressure on young minds. A 19-year-old boy has been arrested for allegedly killing his father following repeated arguments over studies and career expectations.
The case has deeply disturbed many and triggered a serious debate about whether intense academic pressure, particularly around competitive exams like the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), can drive someone towards violent behaviour and what families can do to prevent such tragedies.
Son Accused Of ‘Killing’ Father After Dispute
Police said the incident occurred in Lucknow’s Ashiyana area on February 20. The accused, Akshat Pratap Singh, allegedly shot his father, Manvendra Singh, with a licensed rifle after a heated argument. The father worked as a pathologist and liquor trader.
During questioning, the teenager told police that fights at home had become frequent. He said he felt constant pressure regarding competitive medical exams such as NEET. Investigators revealed that after the shooting, he tried to hide the crime, horrifyingly.
According to police, he “cut the body into parts, separating the hands, legs below the knees and the head”. The torso was placed inside a sleeping bag and kept in a blue drum at home, as per The Times of India. Other body parts were thrown in a secluded place near Sadrauna. The head has not yet been found.
Officials reportedly said he had also arranged nearly 10 litres of kerosene and planned to burn the remains to remove evidence. Before he could carry out the plan, the police arrested him.
In an attempt to mislead authorities, he filed a missing person complaint and claimed that his father had gone to Delhi. He also told some people that his father had died by suicide. However, police noticed gaps in his statements. After sustained questioning, he broke down and confessed. His sister was reportedly present during the crime and was threatened to stay silent.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Vikrant Vir said, “He confessed to shooting his father in anger. The body parts were disposed of at different locations. The accused is in custody, and further legal action is underway”, as quoted by The Times of India.
Does Extreme Exam Pressure Like NEET Trigger Violence?
Extreme exam pressure, like NEET, does not usually turn someone violent. However, in rare situations, very high stress mixed with anger and personal issues can lead to dangerous reactions.
Psychologists often refer to the frustration-aggression theory, which explains how blocked goals can build anger. In most cases, this anger does not lead to serious violence, but if someone lacks emotional control, it can turn into harmful behaviour.
What Are the Psychological Insights?
Long-term exam stress often causes anxiety, sadness and even thoughts of self-harm. It is far more common for students to harm themselves than others. Research shows that pressure can increase irritability and short temper, but it usually shows up as arguments, fights or impulsive actions, not murder.
Poor emotional control, lack of support and repeated provocation can increase risks. When students feel trapped, unheard or constantly criticised, their stress may build up in unhealthy ways.
What Are Some Rare NEET-Related Cases?
There have been isolated cases linked to exam stress. In one case, a 20-year-old NEET aspirant allegedly killed his mother and injured his father in March 2025, saying he could not handle the pressure. Then comes the recent story, a 19-year-old reportedly shot and dismembered his father after arguments over NEET preparation.
These incidents are extremely rare. Sadly, exam stress in India has more often been linked to student suicides rather than violence against others.
What Prevention Advice Is Available?
Experts reportedly say early counselling can help students deal with frustration and fear. Simple talk therapy and methods like CBT can help manage negative thoughts. Parents are advised to lower unrealistic expectations and create a safe, supportive space at home.
Students in India can also reach out to helplines such as iCall (9152987821) for emotional support.
How Can NEET Exam Stress Be Managed?
Preparing for NEET requires planning, not panic. A clear daily routine can reduce confusion. Breaking the syllabus into small parts and using 25-minute study sessions with short breaks can help maintain focus. Weekly mock tests can build confidence.
Simple relaxation steps such as deep breathing, short walks and light exercise can calm the mind. Getting enough sleep, eating healthy food and limiting social media are also important.
Which Relaxation Apps Are Recommended?
Apps like Calm and Headspace offer short guided meditation and breathing sessions that students can use during study breaks. Insight Timer provides a large free collection of relaxation tracks.
Short daily sessions of five to ten minutes are enough to build mental strength. These tools work best when combined with offline habits like talking to family, taking walks and avoiding overuse of screens.
What Role Do Parents Play in NEET Prep?
Parents play a key role in reducing stress. Listening without judging, praising effort instead of ranks and avoiding comparisons can make a big difference. Creating a quiet study space and ensuring regular meals and sleep also help.
If signs of burnout appear, such as withdrawal or constant anger, seeking professional help is important. Most importantly, children should feel that their worth is not tied only to exam results.
Delhi, India, India
February 25, 2026, 08:00 IST
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