IIT-Madras Faces Controversy Over Student Product Test Without Parental Consent

Chennai: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Madras is under scrutiny after a product test conducted on students at Vana Vani Matriculation Higher Secondary School sparked controversy. Parents allege that their children were made to participate in a test involving wearable technology without prior consent. The test, held on August 19, required students to wear a "smart insole" and a smartwatch, and asked them to walk and jump short distances for data collection.

The incident led to complaints to IIT-Madras management, with parents claiming that no parental consent was obtained before the test. Following escalating concerns, the state education department intervened, initiating an inquiry and replacing the school principal, M Sathishkumar. IIT-Madras has stated that the activity was a feasibility study, not a clinical trial, and denied that any invasive procedures were involved. However, the institute acknowledged that the proper protocol for parental consent had not been followed.

While IIT-Madras defended the non-invasive nature of the study, they issued warnings to the faculty involved and emphasized the need for consent in future activities. The fact-finding committee concluded that the test did not involve medical procedures but had failed to obtain parental approval, leading to the principal's removal.

The controversy continues as parents question the ethics of conducting such tests on minors without clear consent.