IIT Bombay has issued a formal apology for its initial statement concerning the death of 22-year-old BTech student Sahil Ravindra Wakode. The prestigious institution admitted its previous communication was "inappropriate" given an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In a follow-up statement, IIT Bombay clarified that its Director, Shireesh Kedare, has not resigned, unequivocally refuting earlier reports of his departure. The institute stated, "Director IIT Bombay has NOT resigned. We categorically state that the related news is false."
Apology Over 'Inappropriate' Details
The apology specifically addresses the institute's initial characterization of the events leading up to Wakode's demise. "The details and circumstances leading up to the incident remain subject to investigation by the appropriate authorities," the statement read. "In view of the ongoing investigation, it was inappropriate to have set out or characterised details relating to the events preceding his demise before they had been duly established through the appropriate investigative process."
Wakode, a second-year student in the Department of Energy Science and Engineering, was found dead in his room. The original statement from IIT Bombay had claimed Wakode died by suicide and detailed an incident where he was found using a mobile phone to upload an examination question paper to ChatGPT for answers.
The institute had previously stated that while the matter was discussed with an instructor, no disciplinary action was initiated, and Wakode was assured the incident would not negatively impact his academic career. Despite these assurances, the student was found dead later the same evening.
Director's Status and Student Demands
The clarification regarding Director Shireesh Kedare's position comes amidst heightened scrutiny. While some reports suggested the Director had indicated an intention to resign, IIT Bombay's official communication firmly denies any such action, emphasizing that he remains in his post.
In response to the tragic incident and student concerns, IIT Bombay has also agreed to an 18-point charter of demands put forth by students. The institute has affirmed its commitment to supporting Wakode's family, friends, classmates, and faculty members affected by the tragedy.