The recent death by suicide of second-year IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode has led to significant controversy, with third-year student Utkarsh coming forward to support Professor Suryanarayana Doolla. Utkarsh has expressed concerns regarding the allegations made against the professor, asserting that actions taken to prevent cheating during examinations are not inherently wrong. He emphasised that he has not perceived any atmosphere of discrimination on the IIT Bombay campus.

Furthermore, Utkarsh highlighted that the institute’s examination procedures involve using roll numbers instead of names on answer sheets. This aspect, he argued, raises questions about how Professor Doolla could have immediately identified Sahil and allegedly used casteist language during the examination. His comments are set against a backdrop of ongoing calls for institutional reforms and an unbiased investigation into the circumstances leading to Sahil’s death.

Student Representatives Clarify Their Position on Academic Integrity

In a related development, student representatives at IIT Bombay issued a statement on September 21, emphasising that their recent protest was not aimed at condoning academic dishonesty. They categorically stated that they do not support cheating or any form of academic misconduct. The representatives articulated that Sahil’s tragic demise has compelled students to reflect on the existing systems and processes within the institute.

Despite acknowledging the gravity of the situation, they reiterated their demand for necessary institutional reforms along with a thorough and impartial investigation into Sahil’s death. This clarification followed three days of protests on campus, signalling a deep concern among the student body regarding both academic practices and the support structures available to them.

In conjunction with these events, the institute’s administration has decided to remove Professor Doolla from his role as Dean of Administrative Affairs while allowing him to retain his position as a professor pending the outcome of investigations into Sahil’s death.

Faculty Forums from Other IITs Show Support for Doolla

In the midst of this ongoing situation, faculty forums from IIT Delhi and IIT Madras have expressed their support for Professor Doolla. These academic bodies have called for a fair investigation process and have warned against public vilification of individuals involved without conclusive evidence. The statement from the IIT Delhi faculty forum particularly described the situation as influenced by “mob-driven” behaviour.

Both forums extended their condolences to Sahil’s family and the IIT Bombay community, underscoring the importance of a fair examination of the events that transpired. They emphasised that the circumstances surrounding the incident should be scrutinised through appropriate institutional and legal channels.

The statements made by the faculty and the responses from student representatives illustrate a complex interplay of emotions and demands for accountability, reflecting the sensitive nature of the issues at hand. As the investigation continues, the community remains engaged in discussions surrounding the academic and social frameworks within IIT Bombay.

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