Caught using ChatGPT for exam answers, IIT Bombay student dies by suicide; students protest

The student, identified as Sahil Wakode, was from the Department of Energy Science and Engineering.

According to IIT Bombay, he had uploaded the examination question paper on ChatGPT through his mobile phone to seek answers during the exam.

IIT Bombay says no disciplinary action was taken

Following the incident in the examination hall, Wakode was reportedly counselled by the instructor and the Head of the Department.

The institute said he was assured that the incident would not adversely affect his academic career and that no disciplinary action had been initiated against him.

He subsequently returned to his hostel room, where he was later found dead.

In a statement, IIT Bombay said as quoted by NDTV, "The Institute is extending support to the student's friends, classmates, faculty members, and others affected by this tragic incident. The circumstances surrounding the death are being looked into by the appropriate authorities."

Students protest on IIT Bombay campus

Wakode's death triggered protests on the Powai campus, with hundreds of students demanding greater transparency from the institute over the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The protesters alleged that the student had been threatened with a one-year suspension, which they claimed could have forced him to vacate the hostel.

The institute, however, has said that no disciplinary action was initiated against him.

Students have questioned whether the institute has disclosed all details surrounding the events that preceded Wakode's death.

Police deployed on campus

A heavy police presence was reported at the IIT Bombay campus following the protests as authorities sought to maintain order and engage with the students and administration.

Third suicide at IIT Bombay in seven months

Wakode's death is the third reported student suicide at the IIT Bombay campus in Powai in the past seven months.

A second-year student died by suicide in February, while another second-year BTech student reportedly died by suicide in July.

The latest incident has renewed concerns among students over academic pressure and student welfare on the campus.