IIT Delhi students slam inquiry panel picks, cry foul over 'medical history' framing of MSc student's death

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi students have raised concerns over the individuals selected for the external inquiry committee to probe the recent suicide case of an MSc physics student at the institute. The student protestors have also condemned the IIT Delhi admin's medical history narrative of the student, which they say downplays statements made by his family, friends, and peers from the department.

According to a statement shared by students of IIT Delhi, they object to the appointment of IPS Ashok Kumar due to remarks made by him in the past, linked to students' protests.

The students, in the meeting at LHC, concluded that IIT Delhi’s response to the students' demands was “inadequate and evasive”. They objected to the admin’s evaluation that students with mental health issues need "parental support”.

“As students, they need access to peers, fair academic opportunities, and a supportive, empathetic campus. Without a clear undertaking on the aforementioned points, an 'additional support system of a faculty and student mentor seems like a band-aid solution in a broken system,” the students’ statement added.

IIT Delhi students’ object panel members

Students, in their statement, pointed out that IPS Kumar has publicly made comments where he has linked student protests for their rights to “radicalisation" and "digital terrorism. They also questioned Kumar’s capability of Kimar of “treating students' issues with sensitivity” and also compromising the “idea of fair inquiry.”

IIT Delhi students have further demanded that the committee be reconstituted and that it be headed by a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge, collectively nominated by students.

Also read Number of student suicides rises 80% in 10 years, 8.5% of total: NCRB report

Rs 1 crore for compensation

Students have urged IIT Delhi administration to commit to the compensation amount of Rs 1 crore, regardless of whether the fundraising is formal or informal, mandatory or voluntary.

“The deliberate non-mentioning of the compensation amount is evasive,” they said.

As per the MOM shared by IIT Delhi students, the institute denied committing Rs 1 crore in compensation and stated that Rs 6 lakh is the standard benevolent fund disbursement; however, it will try to raise funds from the staff members.

IIT Delhi protestors call for associate dean's removal

The students have demanded the resignation of IIT Delhi’s associate dean of student welfare, professor Sreedevi, stating that she has “lost trust” of the student community.

“This demand is based on her track record of moral policing, insensitive handling of students with mental-health concerns, and insensitive remarks before and after Rishikesh's demise,” the students said in the statement.

No ‘punitive’ action by admin

Students have condemned the “disparaging comments” made by faculty members against students protesting and demanding justice for Rishikesh. They urged the IITD director to reiterate his verbal assurance that no "punitive" action against students peacefully protesting will be taken by any member of the institute, the Delhi police, or any external entity.

“In light of all the above points, the concerned students urge the IIT Delhi administration to reevaluate their response to our original demands. Till then, the protest will continue,” the statement added.

Also read IIT Delhi reaffirms commitment to mental health support, seeks students’ suggestions

Existing mental health protocols at IIT Delhi

Importantly, students have appreciated the decision to appoint an “external Ombudsperson” to address the grievances made by students. However, they pointed out that a redressal forum was created without informing them about the existing mental health protocols. This, they said, puts them in a “compromised position” to exercise their rights as students.

They also noted that it does not commit to reviewing lapses in the protocol, something needed to bring about systemic change on campus. Therefore, they reiterated their previous demand that the IIT Delhi admin must disclose all established protocols to students as a first step towards long-term, systematic change.

If you know someone – friend or family member – at risk of suicide, please reach out to them. Those in distress or having suicidal thoughts or tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling 9820466726 or visiting AASRA’s official website or can call iCALL on 9152987821. Here are some more helpline numbers of suicide prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.