An exam incident takes an unexpected turn as serious allegations emerge, protests intensify, and unanswered questions surround the student’s tragic death.

The IIT Bombay student suicide case has triggered protests, a police investigation and questions over campus disciplinary practices after 22-year-old BTech Energy Science student Sahil Wakode was found dead in his hostel room on September 18, 2026. Professor Suryanarayana Doolla was named in an FIR filed on his father’s complaint, which alleges caste-based harassment and abetment. The allegations remain under investigation.

What Happened During The Examination?

According to IIT Bombay, Wakode was allegedly found using a mobile phone during a mid-semester examination and had uploaded the question paper to ChatGPT to seek answers. Doolla, the course instructor and invigilator, reported the alleged examination malpractice. The institute said Wakode was subsequently counselled by Doolla and the Head of Department and assured that the incident would not adversely affect his academic career.

Why Was Professor Doolla Named In The FIR?

Wakode’s father alleged that his son had faced caste-based remarks and harassment for around three months. The complaint named Doolla and referred to other senior officials. Police registered charges under provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and for alleged abetment to suicide. These allegations have not been established by investigators.

Key developments in the IIT Bombay student death case:

  • Sahil Wakode was found dead on September 18.

  • Police registered an FIR after his father’s complaint.

  • Doolla was named under SC/ST Act provisions.

  • Mumbai Crime Branch is investigating the case.

  • Student protests sought accountability and institutional reforms.

How Has IIT Bombay Responded?

IIT Bombay has maintained that no disciplinary action had been initiated against Wakode before his death. The institute has also rejected allegations of caste discrimination, while the Faculty Forum expressed solidarity with Doolla and said he followed prescribed examination procedures. The competing accounts are now part of the wider investigation.

What Happened After the Student’s Death?

The IIT Bombay student death sparked protests across the campus, with students demanding action against Doolla, greater accountability and changes to academic and mental-health systems. On September 20, IIT Bombay suspended Doolla amid the protests. On September 21, the administration also accepted an 18-point charter submitted by protesting students.

Who Is Suryanarayana Doolla?

Doolla has been associated with IIT Bombay’s Department of Energy Science and Engineering for more than a decade. His academic work covers smart grids, microgrids, renewable-energy integration, power systems and energy efficiency. He has also served as Hostel 6 warden and Dean of Student Affairs and was involved with examinations including JEE Advanced, UCEED and CEED. His honours include the 2021 Prof. S.P. Sukhatme Excellence in Teaching Award, the 2017 IIT Bombay Excellence in Teaching Award and the 2009 Young Faculty Award.

The case now involves three connected issues: the examination incident, the family’s allegations of caste-based harassment and the circumstances surrounding Wakode’s death. With the Mumbai Crime Branch handling the investigation, responsibility and criminal liability remain matters for investigators and the legal process to establish.

Thus, Business Fortune believes that transparent investigations, institutional accountability, and stronger student safeguards remain essential amid concerns surrounding academic pressure and campus welfare.

FAQs

What happened to IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode?

Sahil Wakode, a second-year BTech Energy Science student, was found dead in his hostel room on September 18, 2026, after an examination-related incident.

Why was Professor Suryanarayana Doolla booked by Mumbai Police?

Police booked Doolla after Wakode’s father alleged caste-based harassment and abetment to suicide in his complaint.

What did IIT Bombay say about the examination incident?

IIT Bombay said Wakode was allegedly caught using a mobile phone and had uploaded the examination question paper to ChatGPT for answers.

Has Professor Doolla been suspended by IIT Bombay?

Yes. IIT Bombay suspended Doolla on September 20 following protests by students demanding action over the case.

What is the current status of the IIT Bombay student death case?

The police investigation into Wakode’s death and the allegations against Doolla is ongoing, and criminal liability has not been established.