Students at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay have intensified their protest over the death of second-year student Sahil Wakode, announcing a hunger strike and submitting an 18-point list of demands to the institute administration. Their central demand is an independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The protest began on October 2, following nearly two weeks of demonstrations on campus. Students said they decided to escalate their agitation after Sahil’s parents, who are also protesting at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, were reportedly denied permission to continue their demonstration there over the weekend.
Students Question Independence of Inquiry Panel
A major concern raised by the protesting students relates to the committee formed by IIT Bombay to examine the case. They have called for changes to its composition, arguing that an internal panel may not be viewed as sufficiently independent.
The students want the existing committee replaced with an external body whose members have no current association with IIT Bombay. They have also questioned the impartiality of certain members, alleging that some had expressed support for the professor at the centre of the family’s allegations before the inquiry was completed.
The demand for an outside investigation, they say, is intended to build confidence in the process and ensure that all relevant circumstances are examined objectively. <Cite refs={["turn688194search1","turn688194news4"]}/>
Calls for Accountability From Institute Leadership
The students’ charter also seeks the resignation of IIT Bombay Director Shireesh Kedare. They have demanded the suspension of Professor Suryanarayana Doolla from his responsibilities while the police investigation continues.
Sahil’s parents have alleged that their son faced caste-based discrimination and harassment. These allegations remain under investigation and have not been established as findings of the authorities. The professor has denied wrongdoing, according to reports on the ongoing police inquiry.
The students say the institute must respond to their concerns and provide clarity about the steps being taken. Their protest also includes demands related to student welfare, campus grievance procedures and protection for those participating in demonstrations.
What Happened Before Sahil Wakode’s Death?
Sahil, a second-year BTech student, was found dead in his hostel room on September 18. Reports said the incident occurred after he was allegedly found using a mobile phone during a mid-semester examination.
The circumstances surrounding the examination and the events that followed are now part of the investigation. Mumbai Police’s Crime Branch is examining the case, including the interaction between Sahil and the faculty member involved.
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes has also conducted an inquiry at the institute and directed that relevant material, including CCTV footage and electronic records, be preserved for examination. <Cite refs={["turn688194search13","turn688194search14"]}/>
Parents’ Protest Adds to Pressure on Administration
Sahil’s parents, Ravindra and Sonali Wakode, have been seeking justice and demanding action over the allegations raised by the family. Their protest at Azad Maidan has drawn attention to questions about the institute’s response and the transparency of the investigation.
The students’ hunger strike has brought those concerns onto the campus, increasing pressure on the administration to address the demands. The protesters have said they intend to continue their agitation until they receive a response.
Investigation and Demands Remain Ongoing
The case has prompted a wider discussion about student welfare, disciplinary procedures and institutional accountability. While the investigation is still underway, students are seeking an inquiry process that is independent, credible and responsive to the family’s concerns.
The coming days are likely to be important for both the protest and the police investigation. The students’ demands, the institute’s response and the findings of investigators will shape the next phase of the case.
