IIT Kanpur software engineer dies by suicide; ‘lost talented young professional’, says institute

A software engineer working in the cyber security department of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur allegedly died by suicide. The institute expressed “deep sorrow” over his death.

Hailing from Maharashtra, 25-year-old Deepak Chowdhary was found hanging inside his room by his friends. The police reportedly found a suicide note wherein the software developer expressed inability to keep up with the advancements in the cyber security field and apologised to his parents.

According to IITK director Manindra Agarwal, Chowdhary had been associated with the department for the past two years. "Before the incident, he had spoken to a senior faculty member about his struggles. He was advised to keep working hard and assured he would succeed," Agarwal was quoted as saying.

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In an official statement, the IIT mourned his loss and said, “With deep sorrow, IIT Kanpur mourns the untimely and unfortunate demise of Mr Deepak Chowdhary, a 25-year-old software developer associated with a start-up incubated at the Institute.”

The institute informed that a police forensic team is conducting investigations to determine the cause of his death and IITK is awaiting the outcome of the police inquiry. “With his passing, the Institute has lost a talented and dedicated young professional and prays for strength to the bereaved family,” the IIT added.

In January this year, a female engineer working on a cyber security project at the institute made sexual harassment allegations against her colleague. In another tragic incident, IIT Kanpur PhD scholar Ankit Yadav, from the chemistry department, allegedly died by suicide

(with inputs from PTI)

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.