The Faculty Association of IIT Madras expressed condolences over the loss of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode and called for a transparent, time-bound probe by official authorities. Supporting Prof. Suryanarayana Doolla, the association stated that faculty members must uphold exam integrity in good faith following institutional rules without fear of personal vilification.
Cautioning against premature social media judgements and media trials, the body urged all stakeholders to let the fact-finding process conclude. It also requested authorities to review existing academic malpractice protocols to ensure adequate psychological support and safeguards for students undergoing acute stress.
Key Aspects of the IIT Madras Faculty Statement
Demand for Fair and Time-Bound Probe: The IIT Madras Faculty Association called for an independent, transparent, and time-bound inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of Sahil Wakode, a student in the Department of Energy Science and Engineering at IIT Bombay.
Protection of Academic Integrity and Faculty Protocols: Referencing an earlier statement by the IIT Bombay Faculty Forum, the association noted that Professor Suryanarayana Doolla was acting as the course instructor and invigilator following Senate-approved academic procedures.
Call for Restraint Against Media Trials: The faculty association strongly cautioned against premature judgments and speculative discourse on social media platforms, emphasizing that media trials hinder the delivery of justice.
Review of Student Support Mechanisms: In addition to supporting due process, the association urged institutional leaders to evaluate existing malpractice handling procedures to ensure adequate counseling and safeguards during acute stress.
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