- A second-year Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay student allegedly died by suicide
- He was caught cheating during an examination
- The institute has clarified that no major action was taken against him
IIT Bombay News: A huge drama unfolded after a second-year Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay student allegedly died by suicide after being caught cheating during an examination. The students staged a protest outside the main gate, seeking a probe and action, as this is the third suicide in six months at the IIT Powai Campus. However, the institute has clarified that no major action was taken against the Department of Energy Science and Engineering student.
'Student Was Caught Cheating'
In its statement, the institute said that the student was caught using a mobile phone during the examination. He allegedly uploaded the question paper on ChatGPT to seek answers. However, the administration further stated that no disciplinary action was initiated against him, adding the head of department and instructor assured him that this incident will not have any major impact on his academic records.
Parents Demand Justice
The protests continued even on Saturday despite clarification from the institute, and the students were also joined by the parents of the deceased. While demanding justification, one of the parents stated that the deceased was a fighter, further stating that they will not leave the site until proper action is taken.
"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," one of the student's parents was quoted as saying by the Hindustan Times.
The student later returned to his hostel room after the counselling but was found dead by the fellow students. IIT Bombay expressed sadness over his death and assured to support the friends, classmates, and other individuals affected by this incident.
Deeply Saddened By This Loss: IIT-B
"IIT Bombay is deeply saddened by the loss of a student. The Institute is extending support to the student's friends, classmates, faculty members, and others affected by this tragic incident," the institute said. However, unsatisfied with the campus' statement, the students staged a protest outside the main gate, demanding solid action.
ALSO READ: Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Bill, India Among Countries At Risk Of 100% Tariffs; What Happens Next
Police officials were later deployed at the site to control the situation as the senior officials confirmed that a discussion was held between the students and the administration. While providing details, DCP Dattatray Nalawade stated that a probe is underway in this case.
"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," DCP said in his statement.
Disclaimer: If you or anyone you know needs help, please reach out to one of these helpline numbers: 022-27546669 (Aasra, Mumbai), +91 44 2464 0050 (Sneha, Chennai), 011-23389090, (Sumaitri, Delhi), 040-66202000 (Roshni, Hyderabad), +91 11 41198666 (Sangath Tele-Counselling), 1800-599-0019 (Kiran), +918422984528, +91 8422984529 and +91 8422984530 (Samaritans), +91 8448440632 (Manodarpan), 14416 and 1800-891-4416 (Tele-MANAS)