IIT Bombay Postpones Mid-Sem Exams Again, Plans New SOPs After Student's Death

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) has once again postponed its mid-semester examinations following the tragic death of a second-year student, Sahil Wakode. The student, who was studying Energy Science and Engineering, passed away on September 18 during an examination, suspected for using a mobile phone and ChatGPT. Initially, the institute rescheduled the exams to September 26, but has now set a new date for the examinations in October.

The latest decision to postpone the exams came amid protests by students demanding a review of the examination procedures and disciplinary mechanisms. Wakode's death has sparked conversations about the handling of examination malpractice cases and how such incidents should be addressed. In response, IIT Bombay has constituted a 10-member high-level committee to review the circumstances surrounding the student's death and to examine the appropriate SOPs and guidelines to be followed in such situations.

Professor Suryanarayana Doolla, who was involved in the examination incident, has been sent on leave. The institute is also under investigation by the Mumbai Crime Branch, with allegations of caste-based discrimination and harassment from Wakode's parents. However, the institute denies these claims, stating that Wakode did not approach its SC/ST cell with a complaint in recent months. Wakode's parents have demanded action against those they blame for their son's death and have staged a hunger strike at Azad Maidan.