IIT Bombay Student Death Case: Professor Doolla Questioned for 10 Hours; What Police Are Looking Into Now
Maharashtra: The investigation into the death of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode is entering another crucial phase after Mumbai Crime Branch questioned IIT Bombay professor Suryanarayana Doolla for almost 10 hours. Police have taken his statement as they review the circumstances around the student's death, including the events that unfolded during a mid-semester examination and subsequent interactions.
Doolla has denied allegations of harassment and caste-based discrimination made by Wakode's parents. According to reports, he told investigators that he followed the institute's prescribed procedures when handling the student. These are competing allegations and the investigation has yet to provide a conclusive finding on the allegations.
What Happened Before the Investigation?
Wakode, a second-year BTech student, died by suicide on September 18 after an incident involving a mid-semester examination where he was accused of using a mobile phone to access ChatGPT. The circumstances surrounding the examination incident have become a focal point of the investigation.
Reports suggest that investigators are looking into the dynamic between Wakode and Doolla, why the student was asked to leave the examination setting and what happened immediately after, and if institutional procedures were followed. The case eventually led to an FIR against Doolla after a complaint by Wakode's father. His parents have alleged harassment and caste-based discrimination and have sought action against those they believe to be responsible. The allegations are subject to further investigation.
Professor Doolla Denies the Allegations
During the questioning, Doolla denied the allegations made against him. Reports from investigators suggest that he denied using caste-based or derogatory language and maintained that his conduct was in line with IIT Bombay's guidelines. His statement will come alongside witness accounts and other evidence. It is a crucial distinction to make: being named in an FIR or questioned by police does not by itself establish guilt.
The investigation is still ongoing, and any conclusion on responsibility will be drawn from the evidence collected by investigators and the findings of the relevant authorities.
Around 40 Statements Recorded
The Crime Branch has reportedly recorded statements from around 40 people, including Wakode's parents, students, friends and institute and hostel staff. Police are also set to question IIT Bombay Director Shireesh Kedare as the investigation continues, according to officials cited in current reports.
Digital evidence is also a crucial element of the probe. Investigators are reviewing available electronic and other evidence to reconstruct the events surrounding Wakode's death.
IIT Bombay Sets up 10-Member Inquiry Committee
Separately, IIT Bombay's Board of Governors set up a 10-member committee to look into the circumstances surrounding Wakode's death. The committee includes faculty members, student representatives, a retired IAS officer, an academic and a psychiatrist.
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes has also conducted a spot inquiry at IIT Bombay following Wakode's family's allegations of caste-based discrimination and harassment. The Commission directed authorities to preserve and review relevant evidence and called for an investigation report for further consideration.
Why This Investigation Matters for Students
Beyond the immediate legal investigation, the case has raised concerns about how educational institutions manage academic misconduct, student grievances, disciplinary procedures and student welfare. For schools, colleges and higher-education institutions, an inclusive learning environment goes beyond academic performance. Students require transparent disciplinary procedures, accessible grievance-redressal mechanisms and appropriate avenues to seek help when they face distress or conflict.
At this stage, however, the investigation is ongoing. The evidence collected by police, the findings of the institutional committee, and any further official action will be critical in obtaining a clearer understanding of the events.
What Happens Next?
The Mumbai Crime Branch is expected to continue looking over witness statements, digital evidence and the events leading up to Wakode's death. A potential statement from IIT Bombay Director Shireesh Kedare is also a part of the reported next steps. There has been no verified announcement of Professor Doolla's arrest in the latest reports. The case is currently under investigation.
FAQs
Q1. Who was Sahil Wakode?
Sahil Wakode was a second year BTech student of IIT Bombay who committed suicide on September 18, 2026.
Q2. Why was Professor Suryanarayana Doolla questioned in connection to the case?
The Mumbai Crime Branch questioned Prof. Doolla as a part of their probe into the suicide case of Sahil.
Q3. What did the professor reply when questioned?
The professor told the police that he did not harass or discriminate against the student on caste basis and that he followed up proper procedure.
Q4. How long was the Professor questioned?
According to the reports, the questioning lasted for about eight to 10 hours before he made a formal statement.
Q5. How many people have been questioned till now by the police?
It is reported that around 40 people have been questioned by the Crime Branch till now.
Q6. Has the professor been arrested?
The latest reports suggest that the professor hasn't been arrested till now. The probe is still on.
Q7. Has IIT Bombay opened an internal probe?
Yes, it has. IIT Bombay's Board of Governors has formed a 10 member committee to probe into the incident.
Click Here for More Latest News