IIT Madras student found dead in hostel room; suicide suspected
A 19-year-old woman student of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, was found dead in her hostel room on Saturday. According to the police, it is suspected to be a case of suicide. However, no suicide note has been recovered from the spot yet. A native of Kerala, the first year student was pursuing integrated MA program at the institute. Here are more details.
The student might have killed herself over low academic performance
The incident came to light after some students went to check the woman's room, and found her hanging from the ceiling fan. Subsequently, the police was informed, who then sent the body to the Government Royapettah Hospital for autopsy. Although investigations are currently underway, preliminary probe indicates that she might have killed herself due to concerns over her low academic performance.
IIT-M expressed grief over the death in a statement
"It is with deep grief and sadness that IIT Madras has to inform the passing away of a first-year undergraduate student of Humanities and Social Sciences Department, last night (Friday, November 8)," a statement from IIT Madras said. "IIT Madras faculty, staff and students extend their deepest condolences to the family, friends, and other near and dear ones of the deceased student," it added.
This is fifth suicide case at IIT-M since December, 2018
In September, S Shahal Kormath, a final-year Ocean Engineering student had committed suicide. Earlier in January, a first-year M Tech student from Uttar Pradesh had ended his life. In the same month, another student, a PhD scholar from Jharkhand also committed suicide. Back in December last year, Aditi Simha, an assistant professor at IIT-M, committed suicide in the staff quarters on the campus.
If you are feeling suicidal, seek help
In case you need help or know someone who needs it, you can reach out to AASRA for suicide prevention counseling. Their number is 022 2754 6669. You can also contact the Hyderabad-based Roshni NGO at +914066202000 or COOJ at +918322252525. Sneha India Foundation which works 24X7 can be contacted at +914424640050. Vandrevala Foundation has trained counselors and their number is 18602662345.
