How is IIT-Kharagpur Addressing Student Deaths on Campus?
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Synopsis
In the wake of tragic student deaths, IIT Kharagpur is implementing a comprehensive strategy to enhance campus safety and mental health support. This initiative integrates advanced technology and personalized care, aiming to foster a supportive environment for students. Discover how the institute plans to prevent future tragedies.
Key Takeaways
- IIT Kharagpur is implementing a holistic intervention program.
- The initiative aims to integrate advanced technology with mental health support.
- Personalized student engagement is a key component.
- Four unnatural deaths have occurred in the past seven months.
- Authorities are investigating the latest incident involving Ritam Mondal.
Kolkata, July 19 (NationPress) In light of a distressing series of student fatalities on campus, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur is formulating a thorough strategy aimed at averting such occurrences in the future.
Situated in West Bengal's West Midnapore district, this esteemed institution has unfortunately recorded four unnatural deaths within a mere seven months. The most recent incident involves Ritam Mondal, a fourth-year mechanical engineering student, whose body was found under suspicious circumstances in his hostel room last Friday.
Director Dr. Suman Chakraborty revealed that the institute is initiating a holistic intervention program. This effort will merge cutting-edge technology, dedicated mental health services, and personalized student engagement to foster the overall well-being of the student population.
“Our objective is to guarantee that such tragedies never recur. We are devoted to providing proactive, empathetic, and ongoing support to every student on campus,” stated Dr. Chakraborty.
In the wake of Ritam Mondal's discovery, authorities have opened a case of unnatural death and commenced an investigation.
“Initially, it seems to be a case of suicide, but the ultimate determination will be based on the post-mortem findings,” a police representative remarked.
As per IIT-Kharagpur's announcement, Mondal had just returned to campus following the summer break and had resumed his classes.
“There were no documented signs of mental health issues in the records of the SARTH Counselling Centre. Moreover, the departmental faculty advisor indicated no visible academic or personal problems,” the institute elaborated.
This incident marks the fourth unnatural death on campus since January.
On January 12, Shaon Malik, a third-year electrical engineering student, tragically took his own life.
On April 20, Aniket Walker, a final-year Ocean Engineering student from Maharashtra, was discovered hanging in JC Bose Hall.
On May 4, Mohammad Asif Qamar, a third-year B. Tech student from Bihar, was found dead in his room at Madan Mohan Malviya Hall.
Point of View
The alarming trend of student fatalities at IIT Kharagpur underscores the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support and safety measures in educational institutions. The proposed holistic strategy by the institute demonstrates a commitment to fostering a safe and nurturing environment for all students, aligning with the national imperative of prioritizing youth well-being.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions is IIT Kharagpur taking in response to student deaths?
IIT Kharagpur is developing a comprehensive strategy that includes mental health support, advanced technology integration, and personalized student engagement to ensure overall well-being.
How many unnatural deaths have occurred at IIT Kharagpur recently?
There have been four unnatural deaths on campus over the past seven months.
What was the latest incident reported?
The latest incident involved Ritam Mondal, a fourth-year mechanical engineering student, whose body was found in his hostel room.
What is the institute's stance on mental health support?
The institute has emphasized its commitment to providing comprehensive mental health support and ensuring no student feels isolated or unsupported.
What is the significance of the SARTH Counselling Centre?
The SARTH Counselling Centre plays a crucial role in monitoring student mental health and providing necessary support, with no recorded mental health concerns for Ritam Mondal.
