IIT Kanpur PhD scholar dies by suicide, raises mental health concerns on campus

Ishwaram, a native of Churu, Rajasthan, had joined IIT Kanpur in July 2023 and was pursuing his doctoral research in the Department of Earth Sciences.

He lived in the New SBRA residential building with his wife, Manju, and their three-year-old daughter. His wife is reportedly three months pregnant.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Ishwaram had been battling schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression for the past two years. Friends said he was receiving regular treatment and counseling through the institute’s mental health facilities, said reports.

On Monday, friends accompanied him to a physician, who recommended follow-up counseling. A follow-up appointment was scheduled for Tuesday evening, but Ishwaram died before attending it.

Campus residents rushed him to a private hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. Friends described him as being in a “low phase” in recent days despite ongoing treatment.

Kalyanpur police and forensic teams visited the scene to collect evidence and question witnesses.

The family has been informed, and his wife is currently being questioned at the police station.

In an official statement, IIT Kanpur expressed grief over the loss: “With profound sadness, IIT Kanpur mourns the untimely demise of Mr. Ramswaroop Ishwaram, a promising research scholar in the Department of Earth Sciences.

At this hour of grief, the Institute extends its condolences to the bereaved family and prays for their strength.”

The incident has sparked renewed concerns about student mental health at IIT Kanpur. Data show that of the 30 student suicides reported across all 23 IITs in the past two years, nine occurred at IIT Kanpur, representing the highest count at a single campus.

Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the circumstances of Ishwaram’s death, even as calls grow for improved support systems and mental health interventions on campus.