Published on: October 18, 2025 | 4:01 PM IST

Mumbai: Students at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay have expressed deep concerns about privacy and campus security after an alumnus was allegedly caught recording a video outside a hostel washroom on October 12. The incident took place at Hostel Number 14, and the alumnus was handed over to Powai police by the institute’s security personnel.

According to students, the alumnus had recently completed his master’s degree at IIT Bombay and was reportedly using his official alumni ID to access the campus. “He was a regular visitor to the campus. Now, we know why he was seen here so often,” said one student, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Students also claimed that when police checked the alumnus’ phone, they discovered hundreds of similar videos stored on the device. Neither IIT Bombay administration nor the Powai police have officially confirmed these claims, though the allegations have heightened concerns about security lapses and privacy breaches among the current student body.

“I feel the incident was a direct violation of my privacy and security,” a student said. “We are seeking detailed information from the institute regarding the action taken in the case.”

How the Incident Unfolded

According to students, a current student caught the alumnus red-handed recording the video outside the washroom and immediately raised the alarm. “We nabbed the person and handed him over to the institute’s security officer, assuming action would be taken against him,” said the student.

The IIT-B spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating, “After students brought the matter to our attention, our security officers handed over the person to the Powai police. The matter is under investigation.” The spokesperson added that initial information suggested the individual was not a current student of the institute, though sources confirmed he was an alumnus.

Police Response

Datta Nalawade, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 10), confirmed that the alumnus was handed over to the Powai police. However, he clarified that no first information report (FIR) was registered, and no arrest was made, as no formal complaint or objection was filed by the IIT authorities or any other party.

The incident has sparked a broader discussion among students about the safety of campus facilities and the need for stricter monitoring of visitors, including alumni. Many have urged IIT-B to review access policies and enhance security measures to prevent similar breaches in the future.

While the investigation is ongoing, the episode has left students uneasy about their privacy and the adequacy of the institute’s security protocols.