Tragic Incidents at IIT-Kharagpur: Investigating Student Deaths

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur has embarked on a thorough inquiry following the tragic death of a fourth-year BTech student, Ritam Mondal. A specially formed 10-member fact-finding team will delve into the academic, social, and psychological elements that may have contributed to the incident.

Institute director Suman Chakraborty emphasized the importance of this investigation, underlining the lack of academic or personal issues reported by faculty, and mentioning the psychological support structures already in place at IIT Kharagpur. Mondal's untimely passing marks the fourth such unfortunate event on the campus since January.

In response to these incidents, IIT Kharagpur is amplifying its mental health initiatives. Measures include bar codes on hostel room gates for easy access to counseling services and the 'Campus Mothers' program, which offers emotional mentorship from women faculty and staff, reflecting the institution's commitment to student well-being.

(With inputs from agencies.)