IIT Kharagpur Student Dies By Suicide In College Hostel

Kharagpur: In a tragic incident, a third-year student at IIT Kharagpur, Devika Pillai, died by suicide on Monday, the institute reported. Pillai, originally from Kerala, was studying bioscience and biotechnology. Her body was found in her hostel premises this morning and has been sent to Kharagpur sub-divisional hospital for a post-mortem examination.

“Upon discovery of the incident, the campus security and medical teams were immediately alerted. District police authorities have been informed. Her family has also been informed. The police are conducting a thorough investigation, and the institute is fully cooperating with the authorities,” IIT-KGP said in a statement.

“Ms. Pillai was recognized as an academically gifted student with a CGPA of 8.37, known for her dedication and promising future in biosciences and biotechnology. She served as the General Secretary for Social and Cultural Affairs at Sarojini Naidu / Indira Gandhi Hall and was pursuing a summer internship under a professor from her department,” it added.

The institute expressed its grief over the loss and emphasized that their priority is to provide support to Ms. Pillai’s family and friends during this difficult time. “We are in close contact with her family and are providing all necessary assistance to help them through this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read.

IIT Kharagpur also highlighted its commitment to the well-being and mental health of its students, urging them to utilize available support services, including counseling and mental health resources.