Professor Doolla, who was removed from his post as dean of Administrative Affairs on September 21 after campus protests, was placed on leave on September 23, sources said, to facilitate a fair investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
Wakode, a 22‑year‑old student in the Department of Energy Science and Engineering, was found dead in his hostel room on the evening of September 18, according to officials. The Mumbai Crime Branch is currently handling the case.
A criminal complaint has been filed against Doolla on charges of suicide abetment and caste discrimination. The allegation follows statements from Wakode’s mother, who said her son had told his family that he was being tortured, abused and humiliated because of his caste.
Wakode’s parents have demanded the immediate arrest of IIT Bombay Director Professor Shirish Kedare as well as Professor Doolla, alleging institutional failure to protect the student.
The institute has suspended classes while the investigation proceeds, and no further academic duties have been assigned to Doolla pending the outcome of the probe.