Are Student Deaths Being Exploited for Marketing? IIT Kharagpur Director Speaks Out on Campus Suicides
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Synopsis
In a poignant discussion, IIT Kharagpur's Director sheds light on the alarming rise of student suicides and their exploitation in media narratives. With numerous tragic incidents this year, he emphasizes the need to address the broader educational pressures faced by students. This article delves into the challenges and solutions being implemented at one of India's premier institutions.
Key Takeaways
- IIT Kharagpur faces significant mental health challenges among its 16,000 students.
- Director Suman Chakraborty emphasizes the need for genuine support rather than exploitation of tragedies.
- Six students have died unnaturally this year, five due to suicide.
- New initiatives like the SETU app aim to improve mental health resources.
- Social media's portrayal of suicides is a concern for the administration.
Kolkata, Sep 25 (NationPress) Since the beginning of this year, IIT Kharagpur, one of India's top educational institutions located in West Bengal, has witnessed multiple tragic incidents of suicide.
Addressing the situation, IIT Kharagpur Director Suman Chakraborty remarked on Thursday that some individuals are attempting to exploit the topic of 'suicide' for promotional purposes.
"With 16,000 students on campus, the issues they face did not originate from IIT itself but from the broader education system. The current generation appears to be overwhelmed by excessive social media use, indulging in the virtual realm, overthinking, and adopting a highly competitive mindset. We strive to assist each student, but it’s impractical to have 20,000 counselors (psychologists)," Chakraborty stated.
He voiced his distress over how the suicide crisis is portrayed as a 'sensational story' on social media.
"Certain students, who are not inclined towards their studies, are also trying to leverage the suicide issue for marketing. They argue against the necessity of exams, claiming that examinations induce stress. Even upon failing, they want us to pass them. If such a system were enacted at IIT, it would resemble a primary school," he cautioned.
Since taking on the role of director in June this year, Chakraborty has implemented various initiatives aimed at enhancing student mental health.
Among these efforts is the launch of the SETU app, designed to support students' mental well-being.
Despite these measures, the year has seen the unnatural deaths of six IIT Kharagpur students, five of which were confirmed suicides.
In January, Shaon Malik, a third-year Electrical Engineering student, tragically passed away by apparent suicide.
In April, Aniket Walker, a final-year student specializing in Ocean Engineering, was discovered dead under similar circumstances.
May saw the death of 22-year-old Mohammad Asif Qamar, a third-year Civil Engineering major, who was found hanging.
In July, Ritam Mondal, a fourth-year Mechanical Engineering student aged 21, was found hanging in his hostel room; he was from Regent Park in south Kolkata.
That same month, Chandradeep Pawar, just 19 years old and studying Electrical Engineering, tragically choked on a cough tablet after dinner in the Nehru Hall mess. This was the only incident among the five deaths that was not classified as suicide.
Earlier this month, the body of a research student was discovered hanging in BR Ambedkar Hall at IIT Kharagpur.
The deceased, Harsh Kumar Pandey (24), was pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering at the institution.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this issue with sensitivity and responsibility. While the alarming rise in student suicides at IIT Kharagpur is a reflection of deeper systemic issues within the education sector, it is crucial that we do not allow such tragedies to become sensationalized or exploited for gain. Instead, we must focus on fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is IIT Kharagpur taking to address student mental health?
IIT Kharagpur has introduced several initiatives, including the SETU app, aimed at improving student mental health and providing necessary support.
How many student suicides have occurred at IIT Kharagpur this year?
This year, there have been six unnatural deaths among students at IIT Kharagpur, five of which were confirmed suicides.
What are the main factors contributing to student stress?
The current educational system, excessive social media usage, and a highly competitive environment are noted as significant contributors to student stress.
What is the response from the IIT Kharagpur administration?
The administration, led by Director Suman Chakraborty, is actively seeking solutions to improve mental health support and addressing the unique challenges faced by students.
Is the issue of student suicide being sensationalized?
Yes, Director Chakraborty has expressed concern over how the topic of suicide is being discussed on social media, suggesting it is often treated as a 'glamorous story' rather than a critical issue.
