The 28th edition of IIT Bombay’s Techfest, which started earlier this week, promised a showcase of cutting-edge technology and excitement. However, many students who attended have expressed their disappointment, describing the event as chaotic and poorly managed. According to them, the event did not live up to the high standards expected from such a prestigious institution.
Chaos at the Drone Show: 4-Hour Wait & No Information
One student shared their experience on Reddit, describing a frustrating four-hour wait in line for the highly anticipated drone show. "We were standing in line for nearly four hours, and the mismanagement was unbelievable," the student said.
"My friend got hurt, and we were pushed back and forth in the crowd. There was no communication from the organizers about what was happening or how long we would have to wait."
As the wait continued, frustration boiled over. "The crowd was at its breaking point. After waiting so long, we marched into the SBI bank barrier and broke through it. The women’s line got in, and some VIP students did too. Even people who came later were allowed in," the student added.
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The lack of organisation left many attendees feeling mistreated. "We were treated like animals who had no role in their special activities. There was no apology or acknowledgment of what was happening. The crowd was suffocating, and nothing was done about it."
Disappointment with Overall Event Management
Another student posted on Reddit about their disappointment with the event’s overall management. "I was really excited to attend, but the past few days have been a masterclass in mismanagement," they wrote. This student explained that many people had to wait in line for hours, only to be told the venues were at capacity. "In some cases, a third of the people in line were told to leave because there wasn’t enough space," they said.
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The student pointed out that while the event was huge, basic event management was not handled properly. "For an event meant to showcase innovation, this was a huge letdown," they said. "Has anyone else faced similar issues? I’d love to hear your thoughts."
Stampede-Like Situation Captured on Video
A third student shared a video showing a stampede-like situation during one of the Techfest events. The footage showed a large crowd running in every direction, trying to get into the venue. "Chaos at IITB TECHFEST Mismanagement, Long Queues, and a Lack of Accountability" the student captioned the video.
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"Are We Stupid?" Students Demand Accountability from Organizers
Many students were angry and disappointed with the way the event was handled. One user shared their frustration, saying, "If you knew how many students were coming and how small the venue was, why schedule the most hyped program there? Are we stupid to wait in line for hours and be treated like this?"
The students also criticized the lack of responsibility from the organizers. "I understand organizing such an event takes effort, but treating us like animals is inexcusable," another student said. "They posted on Instagram saying ‘the crowd is getting hyped up,’ but they didn’t show how the crowd was being crushed. At least acknowledge the situation."
Many are calling for the organizers to take responsibility, apologize for the chaos, and improve the planning for future events. "You are at the top of the food chain, but that doesn’t give you the right to treat people like this," one student stated.e
While some students did enjoy certain parts of the event, the experience was overshadowed by poor management. As IIT Bombay’s Techfest comes to an end, many attendees are left questioning how an institution of such prestige allowed this level of disorganization.
