Why Are Students Dying? Supreme Court Slams IIT Kharagpur

On Monday, the Supreme Court expressed worry about rising student suicides at IIT Kharagpur. Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan asked, “What’s wrong with IIT Kharagpur?” They questioned why students take their lives. The court heard a case about suicides at IIT Kharagpur and Sharda University. Earlier, it ordered both institutes to submit responses.

IIT Kharagpur Submits Its Response

The court had earlier asked both institutions to submit their reports. IIT Kharagpur said it filed an FIR on the same day the student died. The incident involved a fourth-year mechanical engineering student.

Timeline of the Incident
The student’s father asked a staff member to clean his room. At 11:02 am, the staffer found the door locked from inside. He looked through the window and saw the student hanging. At 11:25 am, the security team informed the police.By 12:04 pm, officers from two police stations reached the hostel.

The Registrar sent a formal complaint to the local police. He also informed the Ministry of Education about the death. Police filed the FIR after completing initial procedures.

Institutional Reforms Underway
IIT Kharagpur told the court it took the incident very seriously. The institute launched several new measures to protect student well-being. Officials described the suicide as a wake-up call for deep changes.

Stronger Mental Health Support
The institute has upgraded its mental health support system. They formed a ten-member team of doctors, police, and educators. This team can respond quickly to crises and offer long-term help. IIT Kharagpur now uses tech tools to offer emotional support. It offers real-time help and easier access to counselors.

The SETU Framework
IIT Kharagpur started the SETU framework to support students. It includes five parts:

Better counseling services

AI app for emotional check-ins

Wellness units in hostels

Volunteer student groups

Group activities to improve mental health

Using QR Codes for Instant Help
The institute added QR codes to all hostel doors and common areas. Students can scan them to reach emergency contacts, counselors, or mentors.
They can also file anonymous complaints to raise early concerns.

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The Supreme Court expects IIT Kharagpur to continue improving. Officials must ensure students feel supported and heard. The court stressed that student safety must come first—always.