IIT Kharagpur student dies by suicide; university mourns demise, probe underway

A 21-year-old student of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur died by suicide on campus on Saturday morning after reportedly jumping from a hostel building. The incident has again raised concerns about student safety and mental health at the institute, even as police have started an investigation and the institute has expressed its grief.

According to the official statement from IIT Kharagpur, the student has been identified as Mr Jayveersinh Dodiya, a third-year mechanical engineering student. He reportedly jumped from the eighth floor of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Hall on the campus in the West Midnapore district.

“He was found on the ground by other students and was taken to BC Roy Hospital by security staff and fellow students, where doctors declared him dead on arrival,” the institute said.

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The institute said its security and medical teams responded quickly and informed the local police immediately. The student’s family has been informed, and police are now investigating the incident. IIT Kharagpur also said it is fully cooperating with the authorities.

“Police from Hijli police station reached the spot after receiving the information and have started an investigation into the incident. The institute said they are examining CCTV footage and looking into how the student reached the building from his hostel, Nehru Hall,” the statement stated.

Concerns over campus response

In a Reddit post, a user claiming to be a student of IIT Kharagpur alleged a high number of student suicides and criticised the institute’s response, raising concerns about infrastructure and fund use.

“The admin is sending emails about exam entry instructions, asking students to reach the exam hall 45 minutes early and sit there in this heat. They have not yet acknowledged the suicide,” wrote another Reddit user.

In its statement, the institute said it was very sad about the loss of a “bright young student with great potential” and offered condolences to the student’s family, friends, and loved ones. It also said that counselling and support services are available 24/7 for students.

The incident has again raised concerns about student safety and mental health on campus. Reports say there have been several student deaths at IIT Kharagpur in recent years, leading to wider discussion in the education community.

The Supreme Court of India has set up a National Task Force (NTF) to look into student suicides and mental health in colleges. Based on its findings, the court gave an interim order in January with several steps to help prevent suicides.

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.