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IIT Bombay Proposes New Examination Rules Following Student Tragedy

In light of a tragic incident involving a student, IIT Bombay is considering significant revisions to its examination protocols. Proposed changes include allowing students suspected of cheating to complete their exams and ensuring they receive support immediately after the incident. These recommendations, stemming from an 8-member committee, aim to create a more supportive environment for students. The new rules are currently awaiting formal approval, while the previously stricter regulations have been temporarily reinstated. This article delves into the details of the proposed changes and their implications for students.
By Ambika Singh Oct 9, 2026, 10:54 IST

Introduction to Revised Examination Protocols



IIT Bombay is set to update its examination protocols in response to the tragic incident involving student Sahil Wakode. The proposed changes aim to provide a more supportive environment for students during exams, particularly in cases of suspected cheating. Under the new guidelines, students caught cheating will still be allowed to finish their exams, along with other student-friendly measures designed to prevent isolation during such situations. These proposals were discussed in a special Senate meeting and are pending formal approval.


Details of the Proposed Changes

**Recommendations from an 8-Member Committee**


The interim measures being considered stem from an 8-member committee, which includes four faculty members and four students. This committee was formed following the unfortunate suicide of Sahil Wakode, a second-year B.Tech student, on September 18, and presented its findings during a recent Senate meeting.


New Procedures for Suspected Cheating

**New Booklet for Suspected Cheating**


If an invigilator suspects cheating during an exam, they will confiscate any suspicious materials and provide the student with a new answer booklet. The incident will be documented, allowing the student to continue their examination.


Role of the Disciplinary Action Committee

**Disciplinary Action Committee's Involvement**


Once a cheating incident is reported, the invigilator's responsibility ends, and the Disciplinary Action Committee will take over. The proposed rules ensure that the accused student can present their case, with their statement recorded in the presence of staff.


Immediate Support for Students

**Alert to the QRT Helpline**


The new rules require that the QRT helpline be notified immediately after the exam concludes, ensuring that the student is not left alone following the incident.


Temporary Suspension of New Rules

**Reinstatement of 2015 Regulations**


IIT Bombay had previously implemented stricter penalties for cheating, replacing the 2015 guidelines. However, these new rules have been temporarily suspended, reverting to the 2015 regulations, which impose a lesser penalty for carrying a mobile phone into the exam.


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