IIT Bombay apologises over statements on student Sahil’s death

IIT Bombay has issued an apology for earlier statements regarding the circumstances of student Sahil’s death. The institute’s Faculty Forum expressed support for Professor Suryanarayana Doolla, who found Sahil in unauthorised possession and use of a smartphone during an exam, acting under Senate-approved policies.

The Faculty Forum said the invigilator was merely discharging his duties when he discovered the student’s unauthorised use of a smartphone. The forum offered condolences to Sahil’s family while backing the professor’s actions as aligned with the institute’s academic policies currently in force. Meanwhile, students have raised 18 demands seeking accountability and stronger campus support following Sahil’s death.

The institute’s apology acknowledged that earlier communications contained statements about the circumstances surrounding Sahil’s demise that required correction. Investigations are ongoing, and further action will be taken after due process. The Crime Branch is set to summon Professor Doolla for questioning as part of the inquiry.