IIT Bombay Reverts to 2015 Exam Misconduct Policy After Student Suicide

The death of second-year BTech student Sahil Ravindra Wakode on September 18 sparked unrest at IIT Bombay, where he was alleged to have used a mobile phone and ChatGPT during an exam. The institute had rolled out tougher misconduct rules in July 2026, imposing an FR2 grade and up to a semester's suspension for violations. In response to the tragedy and ensuing protests, the Senate voted to revert to the 2015 exam-misconduct policy, which emphasizes case-by-case assessment and allows students to explain themselves before penalties are imposed.

Under the revised process, invigilators must document alleged infractions, and students may optionally submit a form detailing their perspective. A balanced committee of faculty and students is also preparing new standard operating procedures that will give accused students access to mentors and wellness advisers before formal action. The Mumbai Crime Branch is investigating the suicide under relevant legal provisions.