IIT Bombay may put one-semester suspension rule for cheating on hold

IIT Bombay is considering putting on hold its one-semester suspension rule for exam malpractice. The review follows student protests and could reshape how future misconduct cases are handled.IIT Bombay’s July 2026 disciplinary framework prescribed an FR2 grade along with a one-semester academic suspension for possession or use of unauthorised material or electronic devices during exams (File photo)New Delhi,Oct 7, 2026 13:32 ISTThe Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay may reconsider its provision mandating a one-semester academic suspension for certain examination malpractices, amid growing scrutiny of its disciplinary framework.As per a student wanting to be anonymous, the institute is considering putting the current suspension provision on hold and reviewing whether older disciplinary guidelines should be restored. The matter is expected to be discussed by the institute’s authorities as IIT Bombay reassesses how cases of academic misconduct are handled.However, another student of IIT Bombay says otherwise. “We have not received any information regarding this through any notice or mail,” he adds.The reported development comes after the death of second-year BTech student Sahil Wakode, who was allegedly caught using a mobile phone and ChatGPT during an examination on September 18. His death subsequently triggered student protests and renewed questions over IIT Bombay’s examination and disciplinary procedures. WHAT IIT BOMBAY’S REVISED RULES SAYIIT Bombay’s July 2026 disciplinary framework prescribed an FR2 grade along with a one-semester academic suspension for possession or use of unauthorised material or electronic devices during examinations. The rules specifically covered devices such as mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches and AI-enabled gadgets.The framework also provides for stricter action against repeat offenders, with a minimum one-semester suspension in cases involving repeated academic malpractice.WHY THE RULE IS BEING RECONSIDERED The proposed review could mark a shift towards the older disciplinary framework. IIT Bombay’s 2015 guidelines indicate that suspension was reserved for more serious circumstances, including impersonation, certain document-related offences and other severe or repeated misconduct.The institute had earlier indicated that its examination punishment rules would be reviewed following student protests. Reports have also highlighted calls from faculty for a clearer, student-sensitive standard operating procedure (SOP) governing how invigilators should respond when malpractice is suspected.The review is likely to focus not only on the quantum of punishment but also on the procedure followed before disciplinary action is imposed. IIT Bombay’s revised approach could determine whether a blanket suspension provision remains in place or whether penalties are differentiated according to the severity and circumstances of each offence.The institute’s final decision is expected to clarify how future cases of examination malpractice will be handled and whether the one-semester suspension provision will remain part of its academic disciplinary framework.- Ends