Patna, Bihar — A heartbreaking incident unfolded on Monday morning as Ayaan Zahid Khan, the 17-year-old son of prominent Bihar Congress Legislature Party leader Shakeel Ahmed Khan, was found dead under suspected circumstances of suicide. The tragedy struck at the family's official residence located at Sachiwalaya area of Patna, igniting shockwaves among family members, local community, and Congress circles.
Ayaan, who was regarded as a bright student attending Delhi Public School, was discovered hanging from the ceiling fan inside his room. According to police, his body was found after family members broke down the door when he did not respond after being awake for several hours.
The circumstances surrounding Ayaan's death remain unclear as no suicide note has been located. Authorities reported the family expressed significant distress over the incident, with many unable to comprehend how such tragedy could befall them. Reports state Ayaan had attended his mother's friend's birthday party the previous evening and appeared normal upon returning home around 11 p.m.
Shakeel Ahmed Khan, who holds the Kadwa assembly seat for Congress, was away on official duty in Ahmedabad at the time of the incident. News of his son’s death reached him shortly thereafter, prompting his immediate return to Patna. Upon his arrival, the grieving father found himself engulfed by sorrow as he faced the death of his only son.
“Ayaan was very dear to us, studious, and well-mannered,” said Rakesh Rathore, the Bihar State Congress spokesperson. “This incident is incomprehensible. From what we understand, the mother went to wake him for school and found the door locked.”
Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Awkash Kumar stated, "We suspect it’s a case of death by suicide but we are not ruling out other possibilities. Investigators are gathering scientific evidence and interviewing friends and family to ascertain the cause.” He mentioned the police received notification about the tragedy around 8:30 a.m., emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
During the investigation, authorities have taken Ayaan’s mobile phone for analysis, and the police are examining call records as part of their inquiry. Friends of Ayaan, like Umar Khan, have expressed disbelief over the incident, stating he was “a cheerful and studious boy who scored above 90 percent.”
The local community and political figures alike have reacted with sorrow. Congress leaders, including Bihar's party chief Akhilesh Prasad Singh, publicly articulated their condolences, with Singh stating, “I am shocked by the sudden death of Ayaan. May God grant strength to his family.” Such sentiments echo the grief felt by many as they vie for answers concerning Ayaan’s tragic decision.
This incident exposes the intense pressures young students often feel, especially with major examinations looming. With the Class 12 board exams scheduled to begin on February 15, queries have arisen about any academic or personal stress Ayaan may have been confronting. Sources suggest he was preparing diligently for his exams.
Emphasizing the preventative measures needed for youth mental health, Kaukab Quadri, former Congress party president, lamented, “It’s unbearable for parents to bear such loss. We must address the pressures faced by students today.” Such discussions are becoming increasingly necessary as concerns mount about young people's mental health.
Ayaan’s past interactions reflect his vibrant personality. He recently met with Rahul Gandhi during his visit to Bihar, where he shared his artwork with the leader, receiving commendation for his creativity. Friends and educators are left grappling with the loss, trying to reconcile their memories of Ayaan with the somber reality now.
Politicians visiting Shakeel Ahmed Khan's residence have included dignitaries from various parties, showcasing the united front of grief surrounding this tragedy. BJP's Shahnawaz Hussain described Ayaan as “a well-behaved young man focused on his studies” and expressed his condolences. The shared grief across political lines reiterates the cultivation of unity during times of sorrow.
Investigations will continue as authorities strive to piece together the events leading to Ayaan's demise. His death serves as a sobering reminder for societies to prioritize mental wellness and to support students under academic pressure. This incident brings light not only to personal trauma but also to broader societal issues demanding immediate attention.
The loss of Ayaan Zahid Khan is not just felt by his family but by the entire community, raising awareness of the pressures young individuals face and the importance of fostering dialogue around mental health support.