IIT Bombay Student Dies by Suicide, Protests Erupt on Campus

A second-year student at IIT Bombay killed himself. He was allegedly caught using AI during the examination. While officials investigate the matter, students raise concerns as this marks the third suicide case in the last seven months at the institution. While the institution says that no disciplinary action was taken against the deceased and he was counselled, protests have erupted on campus as students demand accountability.

IIT Bombay Student Death: About the incident

A second year student from the Department of Energy Science and Engineering died by suicide on Friday evening in IIT Powai (Bombay). He reportedly uploaded the question papers to ChatGPT to seek answers during the exam. The institute said the student was counselled and that no disciplinary action was taken against him.

Authorities mentioned that they had assured the student that this was not going to impact his academic career. However, later, after the discussion, the student was found dead in his hostel room. IIT Bombay issued a notice extending support to his family, friends, classmates, faculty and others affected by the incident.

Read more about the incident here.

Senior police officer Dattatray Nalawade said that the case was under investigation. He stated:

"Today, a student died by suicide at IIT Powai. Following this, some IIT students gathered and started a protest over their demands. The IIT administration is holding discussions with them to reach an amicable solution."

In a late-night meeting at the convocation hall, the director stated that the institute would increase its focus on students' mental health. He mentioned that eight psychologists were working as consultants and other measures were taken to support students.

Protests Erupt: Students demand accountability, Deceased's Parents participate

A large number of students began protesting at the campus demanding accountability. They stated that the institution was hiding the truth, which led to the student's death. The deceased was allegedly threatened with a one-year suspension. A social media campaign has also been started. A student said:

The reason for our protest is that a suicide took place in our college today. That is why we have gathered to protest to demand accountability, transparency, and answers from our administration. This is not the first incident-four have happened this year alone, and two within the last two months. We have no idea why this is happening or what the reasons are behind all this.

The deceased's parents participated in the protest Saturday morning and mentioned that he was their only child and demanded that the institute explain what led to his death. Further, they pointed out that discrimination amongst students could be one of the reasons that their son took an extreme step. They stated:

We need justification for our son's death. He was our only child. He was not someone who would give up. He was a fighter and came from a very poor background. Until we get an explanation for his death, we will not leave the main gate. We are ready to face any action from the authorities and will fight for justice for our son.

Read more about the protests here.

(If you need support or know someone who does, please reach out to your nearest mental health specialist or dial the Vandrevala Foundation for Mental Health helpline at 9999666555)

Also Read- IIT Delhi Student Suicide: Police register case, Protest continues