We will keep fighting till death: Sahil Wakode's parents to begin hunger strike
The parents of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode have announced a hunger strike at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan from Monday, demanding justice for their son and a fair investigation into his death.
In a video message shared on social media, Ravindra Wakode and Sonali Wakode, said the police had not allowed him to enter the campus. He also announced plans to sit on a hunger strike at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan from Monday.
“Until my son gets justice, I will keep fighting," he said.
The announcement comes amid protests over the death of the 19-year-old student, whose family has raised allegations of caste-based discrimination and questioned the institute’s handling of the matter. The case is under investigation.
In the video, Sahil’s father said he had tried several times to enter the campus but had not received permission.
“I have got the permission for Azad Maidan Mumbai. I will sit on hunger strike starting from Monday,” he said.
He also urged students not to be discouraged by what others might tell them. “You stand with me, I will stand with you. No matter what anyone says, don’t pay heed to them,” he said.FAMILY ALLEGES POLICE HARASSMENT
The caption accompanying the video, titled ‘Sahil’s parents’ message to students’, alleges that the family faced police harassment while grieving and criticised IIT Bombay for issuing a statement about alleged cheating before a fair enquiry.
It demands that the parents be allowed to visit the campus at a time of their choosing and calls for an external investigation committee. The video also seeks Professor Doolla’s suspension from all responsibilities until the enquiry is completed.
The message says the administration’s statement damaged the family’s sentiments and calls on the IIT Bombay community to stand together for a fair process.‘KEEP IT SAFE, I WILL NEED IT IN COURT’
Sahil’s father asked anyone with information or evidence related to his son to preserve it. “If you have any proof regarding Sahil, please keep it safe, I will need it in court and enquiry,” he said.
He also urged students to continue seeking answers, adding: “Find out the truth from inside. This is what we want.” The family has maintained that it will continue its fight until it gets justice for Sahil.- EndsRead | IIT Bombay students demand external panel to probe Sahil Wakode's deathRead | IIT faculty members question SC/ST charges, seek legal action against Sahil's parents
Dipesh D. Tripathi has been working as a journalist for the past eight years. Dipesh specialises in crime stories and has covered agencies like the National Investigation Agency, Anti Terrorism Squad, Mumbai Police, Thane Police. He has also worked on several stories covering the politics in Maharashtra. With his focus on special investigative stories related to crime, especially in Mumbai, Dipesh joined India Today group in 2022.
