‘System needs to take a pause’: Protest erupts at IIT Delhi days after student’s death

NEW DELHI: Slogans demanding justice rang through IIT Delhi Monday as students boycotted classes and gathered outside Lecture Hall Complex, days after the death of a 26-year-old MSc physics student.The protest began around 8.30am and continued into the afternoon. When rain lashed the campus, students moved inside Lecture Hall Complex, but continued their sit-in.They demanded an independent investigation into alleged administrative lapses surrounding the death and accountability of officials found responsible.The protesters also sought an examination of broader issues contributing to student distress, including denial of academic projects, housing-related difficulties and inadequate support systems, along with greater transparency on IIT’s mental-health protocols.Among the ’ demands were the resignation of senior officials, including the dean and associate deans of student affairs and the head of the physics department, Rs 1-crore compensation for the family, protection from disciplinary action for protesting students, and a written response from the administration.IIT Delhi director Rangan…