IIT Bombay replaces ceiling fans with wall-mounted units in student hostels

IIT Bombay administration has initiated a campus-wide replacement programme, removing ceiling fans from student hostels and installing wall-mounted fan units instead. The initiative comes amid ongoing concerns about student welfare at the prestigious institution following several reported deaths among residents.

The decision reflects heightened attention to hostel safety measures at the institute. Authorities have framed the replacement as part of broader efforts to address student well-being, though specifics regarding the timeline and scope of the campus-wide replacement remain unclear.

However, the measure has drawn sharp political criticism. The Nationalist Congress Party has contested the decision, characterising it as an attempt to deflect attention from systemic shortcomings rather than address root causes of student distress. Critics argue that the move represents a superficial response that sidesteps questions about institutional support systems, counselling services, and mental health infrastructure available to students.

The controversy reflects broader national scrutiny of student welfare policies at India's leading technical institutions. Mental health advocacy groups have previously highlighted the need for comprehensive support frameworks alongside physical safety measures in residential campuses.