Another student found dead at IIT Kharagpur: Is suicide suspected?
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Synopsis
A heartbreaking incident unfolds as another student at IIT Kharagpur is found dead, raising concerns about mental health on campus. The victim, a PhD student, was discovered hanging in the B.R. Ambedkar Hall. With this being the sixth death this year, the institution is under scrutiny. What could be the reasons behind this troubling trend?
Key Takeaways
- Tragic incident highlights mental health concerns at educational institutions.
- This death marks the sixth case of a student fatality at IIT Kharagpur this year.
- Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
- Enhanced mental health support is crucial for student welfare.
- This incident raises awareness about the importance of student well-being.
Kolkata, Sep 20 (NationPress) The tragic news of yet another student reportedly taking their own life emerged from IIT Kharagpur in West Bengal on Saturday, according to police reports.
The remains of a doctoral student were discovered within the B.R. Ambedkar Hall at IIT Kharagpur.
The Hijli outpost police, operating under Kharagpur Town police station, were the ones to recover the body.
Sources within the police have identified the deceased as Harsh Kumar Pandey, aged 24.
He was engaged in PhD studies specializing in Mechanical Engineering at the institute and originally came from Jharkhand.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding this incident and the potential motivations behind it.
“A student’s body was found hanging at the institute. It has been sent for autopsy. At first glance, it appears to be a suicide case. However, the actual cause of death will be established only upon receiving the autopsy results, along with any evidence of foul play,” stated a senior official from Kharagpur Town police.
The family of the deceased has been notified about this heartbreaking incident.
According to insiders, the institute plans to release an official statement soon.
This marks the sixth reported death at IIT Kharagpur this year, a prestigious educational institution in the country.
Of these six incidents, five involved students found hanging.
Earlier this year in January, a third-year Electrical Engineering student named Shaon Malik died in what was suspected to be a suicide.
In April, a final-year student specializing in Ocean Engineering, Aniket Walker, was found deceased under similar circumstances.
In May, a 22-year-old third-year student, Mohammad Asif Qamar, from the civil engineering program was discovered hanging.
July saw the death of Ritam Mondal, a 21-year-old fourth-year Mechanical Engineering student, who was also found hanging in his hostel room. He resided in Regent Park, south Kolkata.
During the same month, Chandradeep Pawar, a 19-year-old Electrical Engineering student, tragically choked on a common cough and cold tablet he attempted to swallow after dinner at the Nehru Hall mess.
This was the only case among the last five deaths not categorized as suicide.
Point of View
It's critical that we approach this sensitive issue with care. The repeated incidents of student suicides at IIT Kharagpur highlight an urgent need for improved mental health resources and support within academic institutions. We stand committed to advocating for necessary changes to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the student's death at IIT Kharagpur?
While the circumstances are still under investigation, initial reports suggest it may be a case of suicide. An autopsy will provide further details.
How many deaths have been reported at IIT Kharagpur this year?
This is the sixth reported death at IIT Kharagpur in 2023, with five of those cases involving hanging.
What support systems are in place for students at IIT Kharagpur?
IIT Kharagpur has counseling services, but these incidents underscore the necessity for enhanced mental health support and resources.
Are there any other confirmed causes of death among the recent cases?
Aside from the recent suicide cases, one incident involved a student who tragically choked on a tablet.
What actions are being taken by the authorities?
Authorities are conducting investigations to understand the situation better and the institute is expected to issue a statement soon.
