IIT-Guwahati student found dead in hostel—2nd case in a month
A third-year BTech student from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati was found dead in his hostel room on Monday. The 21-year-old student, hailing from Uttar Pradesh and studying Computer Science and Engineering, was discovered lifeless at Brahmaputra Hostel. This incident marks the second death on campus within a month and has sparked protests among students over alleged academic pressures.
Investigation underway
The local police were alerted about the incident on Monday morning. The body has since been sent for post-mortem examination and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death is currently underway. Superintendent of Police (SP) Ranjan Bhuyan of Kamrup district stated that it is too early to share any details about the death as they are still investigating the matter.
IIT Guwahati administration responds to student's death
The IIT Guwahati administration issued a statement on Monday, saying it is "working closely with the police to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic event." The institute also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a supportive and safe environment for all students. It highlighted that extended counseling support is available for students after class hours if needed, emphasizing its dedication to prioritizing mental health and well-being during these challenging times.
Student protests erupt following death at IIT Guwahati
The student's death has triggered protests by hundreds of students outside the administrative building. They allege that academic pressures contributed to their fellow student's demise. The protesters claimed that the deceased was suffering from physical health issues and mental disturbance, which affected his ability to focus on studies. Despite providing necessary medical certificates, they say his condition was not taken into account leading to increased depression.
Protesters demand accountability from IIT Guwahati administration
The protesters also revealed that the deceased was among several students who failed a course last winter due to attendance issues, resulting in internship restrictions. They believe this added to his distress. "We need the administration to take responsibility and understand our needs," said one protester. Another student expressed frustration over lack of transparency during previous incidents, stating "When the last student suicide had taken place, the administration did not take responsibility for anything."
IIT Guwahati's history of student deaths
This incident marks the fourth death of a student at IIT Guwahati this year. Exactly one month ago, on August 9, a 23-year-old MTech student from Uttar Pradesh was found dead in her hostel room. In April, a 20-year-old BTech student from Bihar was also found dead in his hostel room in a suspected case of suicide. The series of deaths has raised concerns about mental health support and academic pressure at the institute.
Please seek assistance if you are having suicidal thoughts
If you or anyone you know is suffering from suicidal thoughts, please get in touch with AASRA for suicide prevention counseling by ringing 022-27546669 (24 hours). You can also contact the Hyderabad-based Roshni NGO at +914066202000 or COOJ at +918322252525. Sneha India Foundation can also be contacted at +914424640050. Vandrevala Foundation also has trained counselors; its contact number is +91-9999666555.
