Mumbai: Massive Protests Erupt at IIT Bombay After Student Is Found Dead in Hostel Room

A massive protest erupted at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) in Powai on Friday night following the tragic death of a second-year student. The student was allegedly found dead in his hostel room in the evening, hours after he was reportedly caught using a mobile phone during an examination. 

According to the institute, no disciplinary action was taken against the student. The matter had been discussed with him by his instructor and the Head of the Department, who counselled him and assured him that the incident would not adversely impact his academic career. However, news of his death quickly spread across the campus, prompting hundreds of students to gather in protest around 8:30 pm. 

Students have alleged heavy police presence and restrictions on movement in and out of the campus during the demonstrations. While a top institute official attempted to address the protesting students, demonstrations continued late into the night. IIT Bombay has expressed deep sadness over the tragedy, stating that the circumstances surrounding the incident are being examined by appropriate authorities and that support is being extended to the affected campus community.