GUWAHATI: The Dean of Academic Affairs (DoAA) of IIT Guwahati, Kanduru V. Krishna, has submitted his resignation in the wake of protests by students following the death of a student on the campus.
The DoAA put in his papers on Tuesday, but it is yet to be accepted. According to the authorities, a decision in this regard will be taken soon. He also declared his intent of resigning before the protesting students on Tuesday night.
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A third-year B. Tech Computer Science student, Bimlesh Kumar, was found dead in his hostel room early on Monday, September 9 morning. Kumar, who hailed from Uttar Pradesh, is believed to have died by suicide. His body was taken away by his parents on Tuesday after post-mortem.
The agitating students are also demanding the resignation of an Assistant Professor for allegedly misusing his authority and misconduct against students. The students allege the DoAA has a history of making strict decisions and policies which have taken a toll on them. In the instant case, it is alleged that when Bimlesh went with his academic problems, his course professor and faculty advisor agreed with his request, but DoAA didn't agree.
Another Professor is said to have rejected Bimlesh’s attendance concession request even after he showed his medical report due to which he was not able to attend the classes. All this had caused acute distress Bimlesh. “We want that his resignation be accepted,” a student said adding the protests will continue. “Besides, we also are asking for policy changes,” he said.
Bimlesh is the second student to die on IIT Guwahati campus in a month.
Student well-being priority: IIT-G
Meanwhile, the institute on Wednesday said that the well-being of students was its top priority and assured that steps were being taken to address concerns.
In a statement, it said the Director has also engaged in a prolonged discussion with students to hear their issues, thereby committing to improving the overall well-being of the campus community.
The Institute is introducing several measures to improve professional support and prevent future tragedies in light of the incident. It has promised enhanced well-being services, peer support networks, and a thorough review of the present safety protocols.
Also, awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and a commitment to maintain open communication with students have been put in place. The institute expressed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased student, and has urged the student community to refrain from further protests
