IIT Bombay Student Death: Why A Balance Between Academic Integrity And Campus Care Is Needed Urgently

The untimely death of 20-year-old IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode has sparked a profound sense of loss, demanding a comprehensive and impartial inquiry. While it remains unclear if Wakode’s actions were related to involvement with Professor Suryanarayana Doolla or other factors, it is essential that all parties refrain from jumping to conclusions and allow the truth to come to light.

However, amidst the grief and call for accountability, another crucial aspect of the incident has come to the forefront—balancing academic integrity with campus care. Faculty solidarity and protocol

The Faculty Forum of IIT Bombay expressed deep sorrow over Wakode’s passing while maintaining unwavering support for their colleague. In a statement signed by Prof Rajkumar S Pant, president of the Forum, the body reaffirmed their solidarity with Professor Doolla, stating that he was adhering to approved academic policies during the mid-semester examination.

According to the statement, Doolla observed a student using an unauthorized smartphone during the exam, reported the incident per established procedures, and allowed the institute to handle further action. Prof Pant emphasized that Professor Doolla was merely fulfilling his academic responsibilities, and the Faculty Forum mourned the tarnishing of his reputation for doing so.

Echoing this perspective, Dr Shama Mohamed, national spokesperson of the Congress, tweeted that if a student is caught cheating, it is appropriate to admonish them and ask them to leave the room.