IIT Bombay Faculty Backs Professor in Student Death Row
The IIT Bombay Faculty Forum has backed Professor Suryanarayana Doolla amid controversy following the death of a second-year student, saying the exam invigilator acted according to the institute’s approved academic procedures after finding the student using a smartphone during an examination.
IIT Bombay Faculty Forum Defends Professor
The Faculty Forum said Doolla was performing his duties under Senate-approved academic policies when he noticed the student using a smartphone without authorisation during a mid-semester examination on September 18.
The forum described the incident as academic malpractice and said the professor followed procedure by reporting it to institute authorities. It also expressed concern over what it described as damage to Doolla’s reputation while extending condolences to the student’s family.
Student Was Allegedly Using ChatGPT in Exam
IIT Bombay has said the student had uploaded the examination question paper to ChatGPT seeking answers. The institute maintains that no disciplinary action was initiated against him.
According to IIT Bombay, the student was counselled by the course instructor and Head of Department and was assured that the incident would not adversely affect his academic career. He later returned to his hostel room, where he was found dead that evening.
Police Probe Continues Amid Student Protests
The student’s death triggered protests on campus demanding accountability and greater transparency. His family has alleged harassment and discrimination, allegations that remain under investigation and have not been established as fact.
Police have registered a case naming Doolla and other officials following a complaint by the student’s family. IIT Bombay has denied allegations of caste discrimination or that the student was threatened with suspension.
