Sahil Wakode, a student at IIT Bombay, died by suicide shortly after being reprimanded for using a mobile phone during an examination. His parents have since come forward with serious allegations, claiming that their son faced severe harassment and caste discrimination on campus. Ravindra Wakode, Sahil’s father, stated that the pressures of caste-based discrimination and what he described as ‘torture’ contributed to his son’s tragic decision. The family is now calling for justice and urging the government to take strict action against those they believe are responsible for their son’s suffering.
Police register abetment-of-suicide case
“I appeal for a thorough investigation of those who pushed him towards suicide through torture and caste discrimination. Mumbai Police have registered a case of abetment of suicide based on a complaint filed by Ravindra Wakode. The police investigation is underway, while the allegations raised by Wakode’s family and students are being examined by the authorities.
More than 400 students staged a protest on the campus following Wakode’s death and raised questions over the handling of the examination incident.
I urge the government to ensure justice for my child by terminating those responsible for this incident,” Ravindra Wakode told IANS. Police said the father named several people in his statement and that their alleged roles are being investigated.
“There was no conversation at all (with the student). We only tried to make our child understand, telling him to push through this time, that his career would turn out fine. But now, we are the ones suffering the loss. Whoever is responsible for his death must be punished severely.
Ravindra Wakode said the family had tried to reassure their son about his future. My only request to the government is that prompt action be taken immediately against those responsible,” he said.
