IIT-Bombay student Sahil Wakode’s death by suicide has led his parents to seek criminal action against campus authorities. His father has alleged mental torture and abetment, seeking action against IIT director Shireesh Kedare and Professor Suryanarayana Doolla. The Mumbai Crime Branch is investigating the case, examining CCTV footage and campus records after an FIR was registered.
Sahil’s father, Ravindra Wakode, stated that his son endured systematic caste-based harassment and derogatory remarks from faculty members for nearly three months prior to his death. The family rejected preliminary reports attributing the suicide solely to an exam misconduct incident, asserting that academic pressure was weaponized through targeted threats. Sahil’s mother confirmed that during a recent family visit, her son disclosed experiencing severe casteist slurs and ongoing administrative intimidation within his department.
IIT-Bombay Responds To Caste Harassment Allegations
IIT Bombay removed Professor Doolla from his administrative role as Dean of Administrative Affairs while student representatives submitted an eighteen-point charter demanding systemic reforms in response to widespread campus demonstrations. The institute administration issued a formal apology for making early assumptions regarding the circumstances of Sahil’s death, promising full cooperation with investigating authorities. Meanwhile, campus student groups continue to demand independent inquiries, expanded mental health resources, and strict enforcement of anti-discrimination policies.
The Crime Branch is evaluating physical evidence, examination surveillance recordings, and digital records to establish the timeline of events leading up to the tragedy. Investigating officers confirmed that statements from faculty members and institutional officials will be recorded as part of the ongoing probe. Police authorities assured the family that a thorough and transparent legal process will be conducted to determine accountability under applicable statutory laws.
