The mother of Rishikesh Kumar, a 31-year-old MSc Physics student at IIT Delhi who died by suicide on August 22, has recalled conversations in which her son spoke about severe emotional distress and suicidal thoughts. Rishikesh had been receiving mental health support and had withdrawn from his academic semester. His family has raised questions about the support he received from the institute before his death.

Rishikesh's mother, Asha Poddar, told NDTV that her son spoke to her at length the night before his death and expressed feelings of pain, hopelessness and frustration over his academic difficulties. His brother Abhishek Kumar also said the family had spoken to a doctor about his condition. Rishikesh had reportedly been eager to return home to Patna and had been experiencing significant stress in the period leading up to his death.

According to his family, Rishikesh had faced several setbacks during his education. He had left NIT Rourkela following his father's death in 2014 and later completed a Physics degree from Magadh University. He joined IIT Delhi in July 2025 and performed well during his first semester, securing an 8 CGPA. His family said difficulties emerged later, alongside concerns about his mental well-being and accommodation at the institute.

Also Read: PM Modi to IIT Delhi Graduates: 'First In My Bloodline to Build Rocket'

IIT Delhi has said that student welfare and mental well-being are among its priorities and has constituted a five-member external inquiry committee to examine the circumstances surrounding the student's death. The institute said Rishikesh had been referred to its hospital after concerns were raised by fellow students earlier this year and was subsequently supported by an institute psychiatrist. His family later took him to a specialised hospital, where he underwent about a month of inpatient treatment before being discharged.

The institute said Rishikesh's requests to withdraw from the second and third semesters were approved. It added that his health records were reviewed in July and that medical advice was given for him to remain under parental supervision. The student also received counselling and treatment support from institute counsellors and doctors during July and August, according to the statement.

Rishikesh's brother has alleged that difficulties related to hostel accommodation, academic work and interactions with institute authorities added to his distress. He claimed the family had repeatedly sought permission for Rishikesh to stay in the hostel and questioned the institute's handling of medical clearances. Students at IIT Delhi have also been protesting over what they describe as systemic concerns related to student welfare. The external inquiry is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding Rishikesh's death and the concerns raised by his family and students.

Also Read: "I Am Not Baba Bageshwar": PM Modi's Light-Hearted IIT Delhi Remark