The death of 21-year-old civil engineering student Naman Agarwal at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay has left the campus in shock, prompting renewed reflection on student mental health and hostel safety.

## No academic pressure, say faculty members

Naman, a second-year undergraduate from Pilani in Rajasthan, was described by faculty members as academically bright and consistent. Teachers ruled out academic stress as a factor, stating that his academic performance had been strong.

Police said Naman had been undergoing treatment for depression. Campus sources added that his father was recently hospitalised in Rajasthan due to a heart ailment, which may have caused emotional strain.

## “Enjoying, masti, fun”: a final post remembered

Hostel mates remembered Naman as cheerful, friendly and deeply involved in campus activities. He was the convenor of Style Up, a student fashion club, and was known for his easy smile.

His final Instagram post, shared on October 25, showed him celebrating Halloween with friends. The caption carried hashtags such as enjoying, masti, engineering and fun — words that now stand in painful contrast to the tragedy that followed.

## Questions raised over hostel terrace safety

Police said students rushed out after hearing a loud sound and found Naman critically injured on campus. This was the second incident in a year involving a fall from a hostel terrace.

Officials flagged the absence of guards and unrestricted terrace access as a concern. Institute authorities reportedly said the doors were kept unlocked for fire safety reasons. An inquiry has been initiated to examine any security lapses.

## Call for sustained mental health support

Dheeraj Singh, founder of the Global IIT Alumni Support Group, said repeated tragedies underline the need for proactive, continuous mental health care on campuses, focusing on prevention and emotional support rather than reactive steps.

A condolence meeting was held on campus later that night.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. iCALL helpline: 9152987821.