IIT Bombay Cheating Rules: What Punishment Does the Rulebook Say?
IIT Bombay’s July 2026 disciplinary rules prescribe FR2 and a one-semester suspension for possessing or using unauthorised devices during exams.
The death of IIT Bombay student Sahil Ravindra Wakode has brought renewed attention to the institute’s academic malpractice rules, particularly those dealing with unauthorised devices during examinations. Wakode was found dead in his hostel room on September 18, hours after he was caught using a mobile phone during an exam.
According to IIT Bombay’s disciplinary framework approved in July 2026, possessing or using unauthorised material during an examination, including mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches and AI-enabled devices such as smart glasses, can attract an FR2 grade and a one-semester academic suspension.
The rules also cover cheat sheets, books, unauthorised material and passing such material to other students. Using electronic devices during a bio-break while an examination is still underway also falls under the provision.
For verbal communication between students during an exam, the prescribed penalty can be an FR grade. Repeat academic malpractice can lead to at least one semester of suspension, with additional provisions for graduating students.
The framework also allows students to appeal disciplinary decisions on grounds such as procedural errors, new evidence or bias. Appeals generally have to be filed within 10 working days.
IIT Bombay has said no disciplinary action had been initiated against Wakode and that he was counselled after the exam incident. His death has since triggered protests and demands for a transparent investigation, while his family has raised allegations that the institute has denied.
The rulebook may spell out the punishment, but the controversy now centres on how such rules are implemented—and what happened before the tragedy.
