IISc’s 80-hour work rule triggers student protests; Students decry it as ‘oppressive’ and harmful to mental health

A fierce debate has erupted at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, after its Department of Electronic Systems Engineering introduced a strict attendance and parking policy. According to media speculations, the rules mandate up to 80-hour workweeks for senior PhD scholars. While the department cites “discipline,” students call it “oppressive,” sparking a national conversation on India’s glorification of overwork.