IIT Delhi PhD Scholar Passes Away After 46 Days in AIIMS

A PhD scholar from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi died on October 3 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after a prolonged hospitalization that began when he was found unconscious at his rented residence in Munirka Village on August 18. The police reported that he had been receiving treatment for over 45 days before succumbing to his injuries.

The circumstances surrounding the scholar's condition raise serious concerns. Upon discovery, he was found in a locked room, with neighbors breaking in to assist. Following his hospitalization, the police initiated a case of abetment of suicide under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The police have not disclosed whether any individuals are specifically named in the case.

The police statement indicated that the incident did not occur on the IIT Delhi campus, and no allegations were made against any individuals by the victim's family or witnesses. CCTV footage from outside the residence corroborated that he was alone at the time of the incident. The FIR was filed based on a complaint from the Security Officer of IIT Delhi and in compliance with Supreme Court directives.

This tragic event is the third reported suicide linked to IIT Delhi this year. Earlier incidents included the death of a 31-year-old MSc student who allegedly jumped from a building on campus and a first-year B.Tech student who died in March. These occurrences have raised alarms about the mental health and support systems available to students at the prestigious institution.

In light of these events, it is crucial for educational institutions to address mental health proactively. Support services and resources must be made readily available to students to prevent such tragedies. The IIT Delhi community is now left grappling with the implications of this loss, as investigations continue and the institution faces scrutiny over student welfare.