Kerala Orders Probe on ED Report Against Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena & Riyas in CMRL Payoff Row

Massive protests have erupted outside the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay campus following the death by suicide of second-year engineering student Sahil Wakhure. Placards demanding justice were raised as students called for an impartial probe and stricter action against Professor Suryanarayan Dula, who has been removed as dean. The professor faces cases under charges of abetment of suicide and the SC/ST Atrocity Act following allegations of caste-based harassment. While faculty members defended the professor's conduct during exam invigilation, protesting students presented a list of demands addressing campus wellness and discrimination.

The Mumbai Police Crime Branch is investigating the suicide of a student at IIT Bombay by analysing campus and examination hall CCTV footage to reconstruct his final movements. The student reportedly left the exam hall after an invigilator intervened over alleged malpractice and went directly to his hostel room. The incident has triggered student demonstrations demanding fair procedures and counselling support, while faculty members remain divided over action taken against the professor. Meanwhile, the victim's family has raised allegations of harassment. The institute administration is holding discussions with students and faculty to address campus concerns.

The IIT Bombay Faculty Forum has expressed solidarity with an institute professor following the death by suicide of a student on campus. Speaking on the matter, the forum stated that the faculty member was performing official duties in accordance with Senate-approved academic policies by reporting alleged examination malpractice. The forum noted that the professor has not been suspended but temporarily relieved of administrative responsibilities while an inquiry proceeds. Addressing allegations raised regarding caste discrimination, the forum stated that there are no formal complaints on record with the institute's SC/ST cell regarding harassment. The discussion highlighted concerns surrounding student mental health, institutional counselling support, and rising distress across academic campuses, with the forum maintaining that conclusions should await the completion of the formal inquiry.

Chennai Airport has come under scrutiny following concerns regarding persistent underperformance, inadequate maintenance, and a decline in national passenger traffic rankings behind Kolkata. Issues highlighted include poor hygiene, poorly maintained restrooms, long waiting queues, baggage handling delays, and landside infrastructure challenges, with aircraft movements remaining below pre-pandemic levels. A communication addressed to the Prime Minister urges a time-bound decision to entrust the operations, management, and future development of the airport to a competitive operator rather than the Airports Authority of India. The demand seeks to improve maintenance, upgrade facilities to international standards, and address persistent passenger grievances.