The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has decided to revert to its 2015 rules on examination misconduct, allowing students to explain their side before disciplinary action is initiated. The decision follows the death of a second-year BTech student and protests on campus.

The institute introduced stricter rules in July 2026, under which students found using unfair means could receive an FR2 penalty grade and face a one-semester suspension.

The review followed the death of Sahil Ravindra Wakode, a student in the Department of Energy Science and Engineering, on September 18. He died by suicide hours after he was allegedly caught using a mobile phone and ChatGPT during a mid-semester examination. His parents alleged caste-based discrimination, and the case is being investigated by the Mumbai Crime Branch.

Under the 2015 rules, suspension was reserved mainly for serious cases, including mass copying, repeat violations and impersonation. Disciplinary committees examined the evidence before deciding whether malpractice had occurred, with the benefit of the doubt given to students when evidence was unclear.

The revised procedure will also require an invigilator or faculty member to document the alleged misconduct. Students will have the option to record their version of events, although submitting the form will not be compulsory.

A joint committee with equal representation from faculty and students is also developing standard operating procedures that will allow students accused of examination misconduct to consult mentors and wellness advisers before formal disciplinary action.

Inputs from Business Standard

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