The turmoil unfolded after Sahil Wakode, a second-year BTech student, tragically died by suicide following an examination incident. Initial statements released by the administration publicly highlighted allegations of academic malpractice during the mid-semester test. Student bodies and grieving peers fiercely pushed back against these disclosures, arguing that airing unverified disciplinary claims amounted to unfair character defamation of a student who could no longer defend himself.
The outrage quickly snowballed into massive campus demonstrations, forcing the administration to reevaluate its communication approach. Protesters pointed out that institutional transparency should prioritize fair inquiries rather than preemptive disclosures that shift narratives prematurely during sensitive distress situations.
Why Did Students Demand Action Against the Professor?
Professor Suryanarayana Doolla was invigilating the examination room when the incident occurred and was subsequently named in an FIR filed by Mumbai Police based on a complaint lodged by Sahil's parents. The complaint contained serious allegations concerning caste-based discrimination and severe academic pressure.
Protesting student organizations compiled an 18-point charter demanding comprehensive systemic overhaul, immediate suspension of the accused official from authority, independent oversight committees, and formal institutional apologies. While the administration swiftly stripped Professor Doolla of his deanship, student bodies continue pressing for broader accountability across faculty ranks.
How Has the Administration Responded?
Responding to unrelenting pressure, IIT Bombay Director Professor Shireesh Kedare engaged in extensive late-night negotiations with student representatives, ultimately signing the 18-point charter. The institute issued an unconditional public apology on official channels, admitting that releasing preliminary details while external and internal investigations were active constituted a lapse in judgment.
Furthermore, campus authorities have initiated steps toward establishing enhanced mental health task forces, 24-hour helplines, and stricter protocols for handling student grievances to prevent similar tragedies.