IIT Delhi: Major decision by IIT Delhi regarding students' mental health; the entire system will be revamped..
IIT Delhi Student Welfare Reforms: IIT Delhi has taken a significant step toward improving the mental health of students on campus and safeguarding their rights. This decision follows the recommendations of a high-level inquiry committee, which was constituted after the tragic death of a student, Rishikesh Kumar, in August 2026. The institute will now recruit additional psychologists and counselors and appoint an independent 'Grievance Redressal Ombudsman' to address student complaints, ensuring a safe and transparent environment on campus.
Committee Chaired by a Retired Judge Submits Confidential Report
The committee, chaired by Justice Mukta Gupta—a retired judge of the Delhi High Court—included a senior expert from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and two student representatives. The committee has directed that its report remain confidential; consequently, the institute has not disclosed the detailed findings. However, according to IIT Delhi, the committee’s recommendations primarily focus on strengthening mental health support systems and improving related institutional frameworks.
Formation of an Internal Committee to Implement Recommendations
To act upon the committee’s recommendations, the institute established an internal committee. This body comprised the Deputy Director (Operations), the Dean of Student Affairs, the Dean of Academics, the General Secretaries of the Student Affairs Council and the Student Welfare Board, and the Assistant Registrar (Student Affairs). This internal committee reviewed each recommendation made by the external inquiry committee and developed an action plan for their implementation.
Action Plan Shared with Students and Faculty
On October 31, IIT Delhi shared the external committee’s recommendations, the proposed actions, and the implementation plan with students, faculty, and staff. Subsequently, the action plan was discussed during a meeting of the Student Affairs Council on November 3. During this process, direct input was sought from students, and their suggestions were incorporated into a time-bound action plan. To enhance the effectiveness of mental health support at the institute, additional full-time clinical psychologists and counselors will be recruited. Furthermore, the number of visiting psychiatrists—who provide expert consultations on a periodic basis—will also be increased.
Recruitment of Additional Psychologists and Expert Consultations
The objective is to provide students with better professional support when they need it most. Additionally, comprehensive awareness campaigns will be launched regarding mental health issues and the laws concerning substance abuse. Workshops on empathetic behavior, communication skills, and mental health-related topics will be made mandatory for the institute’s administrative staff, hostel staff, and faculty members.
'Support Network' for Students Returning from Extended Leave
IIT Delhi has decided to establish a formal framework for students returning to their studies after an extended period of leave. Under this initiative, such students will receive specialized counseling, and academic coordination will be facilitated to help them get their studies back on track. A network of peer students will also be created to provide support, assisting them in reintegrating into academic and campus life. The system for addressing student concerns and grievances will also be strengthened.
According to the institute, an independent student grievance redressal ombudsman will be appointed. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the mental health support system and welfare policy will be conducted. A committee will be formed for this purpose, comprising two senior mental health experts, one welfare professional, and two student representatives. This committee will evaluate existing systems—including emergency response protocols, referral mechanisms for specialist care, and monitoring methods—and subsequently propose necessary improvements.
IIT Delhi states that its goal is to foster an environment on campus characterized by empathy, transparency, and collaboration. According to the institution, these reforms are not merely changes to existing arrangements, but rather steps taken toward prioritizing student well-being and continuously improving the institutional framework.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
