- IIT Bombay exams resumed with tighter security protocols.
- Academic malpractice rules reverted to the 2015 framework.
- Decision follows student protests after a student's death.
IIT Bombay Mid-Semester 2026: The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has resumed its postponed mid-semester examinations on October 10 and 11 under tighter security protocols. The institute has also reverted to its April 2015 academic malpractice rules, replacing the stricter disciplinary framework introduced in July 2026.
The examinations were suspended following the death by suicide of second-year BTech student Sahil Wakode on September 18, after he was found using a mobile phone during an examination. The incident triggered student protests and prompted a review of examination procedures, disciplinary penalties and student welfare measures.
IIT Bombay Mid-Sem Exams Resume With Stricter Security Checks
According to instructions issued by the Office of the Dean (Academics), students and teaching assistants must report to examination venues 30 minutes before the scheduled start. Students must leave mobile phones, bags, books and other unauthorised materials outside the examination building and may be checked for prohibited items.
Students must be seated at least 10 minutes before the examination begins. Entry will not be permitted 30 minutes after the paper starts. Only identity cards and essential stationery are allowed inside examination halls, except for materials specifically authorised during open-book examinations.
IIT Bombay Revises Academic Malpractice Penalties
The institute has restored its April 2015 academic malpractice rules, replacing the stricter framework introduced in July 2026. Under the July rules, students found carrying a mobile phone into an examination could face an FR (fail and repeat) grade and suspension for a semester.
Under the 2015 framework, carrying a mobile phone into an examination attracts a one-grade reduction, while using a phone during an examination can result in an FR grade.
The decision follows a special meeting of the institute’s Senate, which considered concerns about the handling of examination misconduct allegations and the disciplinary consequences faced by students.
Student Protests Follow Sahil Wakode’s Death
Following Wakode’s death, students staged protests and submitted an 18-point charter of demands to IIT Bombay Director Shireesh Kedare. Their demands included changes to examination procedures, improved student welfare measures and stronger mental health support.
The incident renewed debate over the institute’s disciplinary policies and the need to balance examination integrity with student well-being.
IIT Bombay Committee Reviews Examination Procedures.
The institute later formed an eight-member committee with four faculty members and four student representatives. The committee reviews examination protocols. Recommends a clearer process for handling suspected malpractice cases.
The committee has submitted its report to the Senate. However, proposals concerning the handling of suspected cheating cases are not yet finalised.
The revised examination arrangements reflect IIT Bombay’s efforts to strengthen examination security while reviewing its approach to disciplinary action and student welfare.