IIT student death: Sahil Wakode’s parents move Bombay HC seeking CBI, SIT probe

Mumbai, October 31, 2026: The parents of IIT Bombay student Sahil Ravindra Wakode, who tragically took his own life in September, have filed a petition in the Bombay High Court. They request a CBI or Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into his death, claiming he suffered harassment from faculty members regarding an alleged examination malpractice incident.

In their petition, filed by Advocate Hitendra Gandhi, the Wakodes argue that the Mumbai Police Crime Branch investigation did not thoroughly investigate the events leading to their son's suicide. According to the petition, Sahil was caught with a mobile phone during an exam on September 18 and was questioned for an hour at the Head of Department’s office.

Despite the IIT Bombay 2015 procedure requiring he resume the exam and get a fresh answer book, he was denied these rights. The petition alleges Sahil was forced to write an apology under threats of suspension or expulsion, with the invigilator lacking authority to conduct the inquiry or impose punishment. The parents also claim Sahil told them Prof Doolla made a caste-related remark and threatened to frame him in a false case.

Following the incident, Sahil returned home and died by suicide later that day. The Wakodes assert no counselors, wellness officers, or mentors were offered to support him after the exam issue. The Crime Branch investigation was transferred after an FIR was filed the next day at Powai police station under specific Acts. The parents have requested the preservation of relevant footage, documents, and witness protection, also proposing oversight by a retired High Court judge.