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

Amid students’ protest after the death of MSc student Rishikesh Kumar, the institute has reaffirmed its commitment to support students’ mental health, ensuring timely, professional, and comprehensive care.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has further invited its students to come forward with suggestions and concerns so that it can improve its systems and create a safer, responsive, and supportive environment.

According to the IIT Delhi statement, the institute has been consistent in strengthening its “mental health support systems.” IIT Delhi offers access to empanelled counsellors, with the costs reimbursed by the institute.

Also, along with 15 on-campus counsellors and one full-time psychiatrist and two part-time psychiatrists, one each from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Vidyasagar Institute of Mental Health, Neuro & Allied Sciences (VIMHANS) are available at the institute, IIT Delhi added.

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

IIT Delhi’s 5-member inquiry committee

IIT Delhi has constituted a five-member external inquiry committee to investigate the suicide case. The panel will have external members and will be led by Ashok Kumar, ex-DGP Uttarakhand, VC Sports University Haryana, and IIT Delhi alumnus.

IIT Delhi has ensured that the committee is given necessary details to examine the matter comprehensively and identify measures required to strengthen student support systems.

In addition to this, an external ombudsperson is proposed to be appointed to address student grievances that remain unresolved through the existing internal system.

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.