New Delhi: IIT Delhi expresses its profound sorrow and deep shock at the tragic demise of Shri Rishikesh Kumar, an M.Sc. student at the Institute. The Institute stands with his family and friends in this moment of immense grief. A condolence meeting was held on 24 August 2026 to mourn his untimely demise. The Institute is also extending financial support to his family through contributions from faculty, students and staff.

Shri Rishikesh Kumar joined IIT Delhi in July 2025 and was residing in a hostel on campus. He was an academically bright student. Following concerns raised by fellow students a few days after the Holi festivities earlier this year, he was immediately referred to the IIT Delhi Hospital through the Institute ambulance. He was assessed and supported by the Institute Psychiatrist, following which his family informed that they want to take him to a specialised hospital. Thereafter, he underwent approximately one month of inpatient treatment at the specialised hospital before being discharged.

The student subsequently requested withdrawal from the second semester (Jan-May 2026), which was approved by the Institute. In July 2026, his health records were reviewed, and medical advice was again given that he should continue to remain under parental supervision. He was provided counselling and treatment support by the Institute counsellor/doctor in both July and August 2026. His request for withdrawal from the third semester (July-Nov 2026) was also approved by the Institute.

IIT Delhi has been consistently strengthening its mental health support systems and remains firmly committed to ensuring that students have access to timely, professional and comprehensive care. The Institute currently provides access to empanelled counsellors, with the costs reimbursed by the Institute, along with 15 on-campus counsellors and one full-time psychiatrist and two part-time psychiatrists (one each from AIIMS and VIMHANS). All treatment costs are borne by the Institute.

At the same time, the Institute recognises that every such tragic incident requires a thorough and independent examination. IIT Delhi is therefore constituting an external inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances leading to this tragic incident. The Institute will ensure that the committee is given the necessary mandate to examine the matter comprehensively and to identify any further measures that may be required to strengthen student support systems.

In addition, an external ombudsperson is proposed to be appointed to address student grievances that remain unresolved through the existing internal mechanisms. The Institute further invites students to come forward with their suggestions and concerns so that the Institute can continuously improve its systems and create a safer, more responsive and supportive campus environment.

Student welfare and mental well-being remain an absolute priority for IIT Delhi. The Institute is committed to treating students as active stakeholders and to taking proactive, sustained and measurable steps to safeguard their academic welfare and mental health. The Institute will continue to strengthen its systems and take all necessary measures to ensure that students receive the support and care they need throughout their academic journey.