A 2024 email from Professor Suryanarayana Doolla of the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has recently resurfaced, drawing significant scrutiny. The communication, sent to students, reportedly solicited complaints against Professor Seemantak Das, who is a member of the internal inquiry committee investigating the death of student Darshan Solanki.
The email, sent by Prof. Doolla, a faculty member in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, asked recipients if they had "any complaints or issues" regarding Prof. Das. This request has been widely criticized as "inappropriate" by various stakeholders, including student groups and legal experts, who argue it could be perceived as an attempt to influence or intimidate those involved in the sensitive ongoing investigation.
Context: The Darshan Solanki Death Case
The controversy surrounding Prof. Doolla's email is deeply intertwined with the tragic death of Darshan Solanki, an 18-year-old B.Tech student who died by suicide in February 2023. Solanki, a first-year student from Ahmedabad, belonged to the Scheduled Caste community, and his family and several student organizations have alleged that caste discrimination at the prestigious institution contributed to his death.
IIT Bombay formed an internal inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances leading to Solanki's death. Prof. Seemantak Das, from the Humanities and Social Sciences department, was appointed to this crucial committee. The committee's findings and recommendations are highly anticipated, especially given the persistent allegations of systemic discrimination.
Concerns Over Academic Freedom and Inquiry Integrity
Critics argue that Prof. Doolla's email, by directly or indirectly seeking adverse information about a committee member, could compromise the integrity and independence of the inquiry process. Such actions raise questions about academic freedom, institutional oversight, and the protection of individuals participating in internal investigations.
"Asking students for complaints against an inquiry committee member, especially in a case as sensitive as Darshan Solanki's, sends a chilling message," stated a former faculty member anonymously. "It can deter students from speaking freely or even lead to perceived pressure on the committee itself."
The resurfacing of this email adds another complex layer to an already emotionally charged and legally significant case. As the IIT Bombay administration continues its efforts to address the allegations and ensure a fair investigation, the institution faces renewed calls for transparency and accountability regarding the conduct of its faculty members.