Candlelight march in Bandra demands justice for IIT student Sahil Wakode

Several student organisations, social groups and residents gathered in Bandra East on Sunday (November 1, 2026) evening to hold a candlelight march and tribute meeting demanding justice for Sahil Wakode, who was found dead in his hostel room on September 18.

The march was organised by the National Minority Front; it began at Kushinara Buddhavihar and culminated at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Garden, opposite the Collector’s Office in Bandra East. Participants paid tribute to Wakode and expressed solidarity with his parents, who have been staging a hunger strike at Azad Maidan demanding justice for their son.

Rohini Kamble, corporator from Ward 93, condemned the circumstances surrounding Wakode’s death and expressed concern over the family’s continuing struggle for justice.

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“What happened to Sahil Wakode is truly condemnable. His parents are still on a hunger strike at Azad Maidan, but they have not received justice. These children are our future, and if such incidents continue, our future itself is at risk,” Ms. Kamble said.

Qaid Zoher, a leader of the All India Students’ Association (AISA), alleged that students demanding justice for Wakode were facing hostility from sections of the IIT Bombay student community as well as the institute’s administration.

Mr. Zoher claimed that some students had celebrated the removal of a memorial space called the ‘Justice for Sahil’ corner, with insensitive comments appearing on social media platforms, including X and Reddit. He further alleged that students who subsequently established a second memorial space, ‘Justice Corner 2’, had not received their confiscated laptops, room keys and other personal belongings.

“Students inside IIT who are fighting for justice for Sahil have not received their confiscated laptops, room keys or belongings, which are basic things needed for their education. They are facing backlash from the administration as well as other students,” Mr. Zoher alleged.

Indrajeet Mohite, founder-chairman of the National Minority Front, said the march had received support from youth groups, student unions, and social organisations across Bandra and Khar. He urged residents to participate in future demonstrations and to extend support to Wakode’s family.

Wakode, a second-year BTech student at IIT Bombay, was found dead in his hostel room on September 18. His parents, Ravindra and Sonali Wakode, have alleged that he faced caste-based discrimination and harassment at the institute. The Mumbai Crime Branch is investigating the case.

The family’s legal battle has also intensified. His parents have approached the Bombay High Court seeking an independent investigation by the CBI or a Special Investigation Team, preservation of CCTV footage and protection for witnesses.

Those in distress may contact Sanjivini, Society for Mental Health suicide prevention helpline: 011-40769002.

Published - November 02, 2026 09:12 am IST