Prof. Suman Chakraborty, Director of IIT Kharagpur, has sent a heartfelt video message and written note to students ahead of examinations at the institute, urging them not to let exam results define their self-worth. The outreach comes in the wake of the death of Sahil Wakode, a 22-year-old second-year student at IIT Bombay, whose suicide has triggered protests and a police investigation.

What the Director Said

In the video posted on X, Prof. Chakraborty reminded students that examinations, while important, are not bigger than the individuals who sit them. 'An exam is indeed important, but it is not bigger than you. A grade is important, but it does not define you,' he said, adding that students should not catastrophise a poor result.

He encouraged adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and mutual support among peers. 'A poor exam is not a poor life. A disappointing grade is not a verdict on your ability,' he said. He also advised students to enter the examination hall with confidence and honesty.

A Message on Resilience and Seeking Help

Prof. Chakraborty drew a distinction between strength and silence, urging students not to carry distress alone. 'Do not carry a difficult moment alone, simply because you believe you are expected to be strong,' he said, assuring students that as Director he would stand to protect their dignity.

In his accompanying letter, he wrote: 'As you walk into your examination halls, remember this: an exam measures what you wrote on one day. It does not measure who you are or what you will become.' He closed with a direct personal assurance — 'My hand is on your shoulder, today and always.'

The IIT Bombay Case: What Happened

The director's message follows the death of Sahil Wakode, a student at IIT Bombay, who allegedly used a mobile phone during an examination and uploaded questions to seek answers via ChatGPT, according to the institute. Faculty members have stated that Wakode was counselled and was assured his academic career would not be adversely affected.

However, a section of students launched an agitation disputing the institute's account. Wakode's parents have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the institute and a faculty member, citing alleged casteist remarks. The Powai Police Station is currently investigating the matter.

Broader Context: Student Mental Health at IITs

The IIT Bombay incident has reignited a long-running debate about academic pressure, institutional accountability, and mental health support at India's premier engineering institutes. Notably, this is not the first time an IIT has faced scrutiny over student suicides linked to examination stress or disciplinary proceedings. The response from the IIT Kharagpur director is among the more publicly visible institutional reactions, signalling a shift — at least in communication — toward empathy-led leadership.

Mental health advocates argue that beyond reassuring messages, structural reforms — including anonymous counselling access and clearer anti-discrimination protocols — are essential for lasting change.