For the past three years, I have faced significant mental harassment at IIT Bombay due to the misconduct and negligence of two professors. Despite being at a prestigious institution, the lack of accountability for professors' conduct has led to severe consequences for my academic and personal life. Verbal abuse, trauma, and mental distress are not just whispered anecdotes among students; they are glaring issues that remain unaddressed within the system.

The professors have consistently used their authoritative power over research to stall my progress, arbitrarily withholding consent needed for publications. This has not only damaged my career prospects but has also exceeded my ability to apply for faculty positions due to age restrictions. It's disheartening that in such a reputable institution, the lack of accountability allows this misuse of power to persist without consequences.

Moreover, the sluggish response of the institution's administration, coupled with the financial and bureaucratic burdens of pursuing legal recourse, leaves students like myself trapped and helpless. The funding agencies have turned a blind eye, making it clear that the current policies are inadequate in addressing the dire need for reform.

The professors have taken undue liberties with response times for emails and draft reviews, using their control over research content as a tool for abuse. This arbitrary delay in publication processes is not just an individual grievance; it translates to a systemic failure affecting numerous researchers who are subjected to the whims of unchecked authoritative figures.

This petition seeks to implement enforceable guidelines that hold professors responsible for their professional conduct, focusing on creating a transparent process for handling complaints effectively. We demand:

1. Establishment of an independent body to review and mediate conflicts between students and professors.
2. Mandatory training sessions for all faculty on professional conduct and mental health awareness.
3. Clear timelines for professors' responses to research queries and review requests.
4. Regular audits of publication delays and power misuse, with a mechanism to redress grievances within a stipulated timeframe.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for a necessary change that ensures accountability and fosters a supportive and respectful academic environment for all researchers. Let's stand together to transform this institutional culture for the better.