Mumbai police report written apology in IIT Bombay student death inquiry

Police said on October 13 that Sahil Wakode had asked IIT Bombay for another chance after allegedly cheating in an examination. Investigators have recorded statements from more than 40 people.

The 22-year-old second-year BTech student was found dead in his hostel room on September 18. According to police, he had earlier been caught allegedly using his mobile phone to access ChatGPT during a mid-semester examination.

An official said Wakode's written statement acknowledged a mistake, cited inadequate preparation for the paper and sought another chance. Police have questioned institute director Shireesh Kedare and professor Suryanarayana Doolla as part of the inquiry.

Wakode's father filed a complaint that led to a case against Doolla. The student's parents allege harassment and caste-based discrimination. Police said the professor denied the harassment allegations in his statement. The investigation continues, and the reported apology does not establish the cause of Wakode's death.