Student Death at IIT Bombay: NCSC Chairperson Kishor Makwana Conducts On-Site Investigation
NCSC Chairperson Kishor Makwana visited IIT Bombay to investigate the death of student Sahil Wakode. He held meetings with institute officials and police, issuing directives to preserve all evidence. The family has alleged caste-based discrimination, and the commission has assured a fair and thorough investigation into the matter.
National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) Chairperson Kishor Makwana conducted an on-site investigation into the death of Sahil Wakode, a second-year B.Tech student at IIT Bombay. This visit followed serious allegations of caste-based discrimination and harassment leveled by the deceased student's family.
The commission chairperson held extensive discussions with the institute's director, registrar, and other senior officials. He requested details regarding the incident on September 18, 2026, when the student was accused of academic misconduct during an examination. The commission reviewed the circumstances under which the student was questioned.
Makwana directed that all relevant records, including CCTV footage, electronic evidence, and examination-related documents, must be preserved. He personally inspected the examination hall and the hostel room where the student resided. He also interacted with fellow students to understand the campus environment.
In the next phase of the investigation, the chairperson held a high-level meeting with senior officials from the Mumbai Police Crime Branch. He instructed the police to ensure the investigation is fair, transparent, and swift. Special emphasis was placed on collecting and preserving all evidence in accordance with the law.
The commission has clarified that it will closely monitor the case. The chairperson asked police officials to record statements from all relevant individuals and submit a detailed report to the commission as soon as possible. Ensuring the protection of the constitutional rights of Scheduled Caste students remains a priority.
During his meeting with the parents of the deceased, Makwana listened to their concerns and assured them of justice. The family has submitted a written complaint, upon which the commission will take action within its statutory mandate. The commission emphasized the need to maintain dignity and equality within educational institutions.
Other senior NCSC officials were also present with the chairperson during this investigation. The commission maintains that effective grievance redressal mechanisms are mandatory in educational institutions to ensure no student faces discrimination. The next progress report on the case is awaited.