Mumbai, September 23: Following the tragic death of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode, Professor Suryanarayana Dulla has been temporarily removed from his position as Dean. Professor Dulla, who has been associated with IIT Bombay for over a decade, is a faculty member in the Department of Energy Science and Engineering.
Professor Dulla has played an active role in student administration and is known for his responsibilities in conducting examinations such as JEE Advanced, UCEED, and CEED.
Previous Employment
Before joining IIT Bombay, Professor Dulla worked at Power Research and Development Consultants in Bengaluru and later with ‘Machine 2 Machine’ in Hyderabad.
Award Recognition
He has received several prestigious awards, including the Prof. S.P. Sukhatme Excellence in Teaching Award in 2021 and the IIT Bombay Excellence in Teaching Award in 2017.
According to the IIT Bombay Faculty Forum, Professor Dulla remains a faculty member and has only been temporarily removed from the Dean position.
Connection to the Suicide Case
Professor Dulla’s name has come into the spotlight after student Sahil Wakode was caught using AI on his mobile phone during mid-semester exams. Professor Dulla, who was the course instructor and invigilator, reported the incident, which later led to Wakode’s tragic suicide.
Allegations of Incitement to Suicide
Based on these allegations, the police have filed a case against Professor Dulla for incitement to suicide and under relevant sections of the SC/ST Act. The student’s family has accused him of mental harassment and caste discrimination.
Faculty Opposition to Suspension
The police are currently investigating the allegations. Meanwhile, the IIT Bombay Faculty Forum has opposed Professor Dulla’s suspension, stating that he acted in accordance with his duties as an invigilator. Several institutions have also organized rallies in support of him.