IIIT Allahabad Student's Suicide Highlights Mental Health Crisis in Elite Institutions

The death of a hearing and speech-impaired first-year student has led to ongoing protests, a formal investigation, and proposed reforms to address academic stress and inadequate support systems.

Rahul Madala Chaitanya, a first-year student at IIIT Allahabad, died by suicide on March 29, 2025, after reportedly struggling with academic pressures and prolonged absence from classes.
The institute has launched a formal investigation with a three-member committee tasked to submit a report within a week.
Students are protesting, holding the administration accountable for academic stress, lack of mental health support, and poor communication with families.
The institute has proposed forming a sub-committee with student representation to address mental health challenges and improve communication channels.
This incident has reignited concerns over mental health crises in competitive academic environments, following similar tragedies at other prestigious institutions in India.