The prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have taken a strong stance against companies that renege on job offers, as the new placement season commenced on Monday. In a significant move, more than 20 companies have been barred from participating in campus recruitment this year for revoking offers made to students in the previous academic cycle.
Why Companies Face the Ban
The decision was made unanimously by the IITs after these firms rescinded offers, some as late as June or July this year—right at the time students were set to join. This practice caused severe disruption because many IITs have a policy that prevents students with existing offers from interviewing for other roles. Consequently, these last-minute withdrawals not only damaged career prospects but also took a toll on the mental well-being of the affected students, according to officials.
The list of banned firms was finalized only after it was confirmed that they had revoked offers at multiple IITs. While some are data analytics and software-based companies, they are still permitted to hire students through off-campus processes. A professor involved in placements explained that the names were cross-verified by coordinators from 15 IITs. "We looked at their past records too. Some of these companies had a history of revoking offers," the professor said, noting that six to seven IITs had already prohibited them.
Student Ordeal and Institutional Response
The human impact of these revocations is stark. A computer science graduate from IIT Bombay's 2025 batch shared his experience of having an offer from a trading platform revoked on May 29, just two days before his June 1 joining date. The offer was for nearly Rs 30 lakh. "Fortunately, I got a better offer through an alumnus in some time," he said, adding that while IIT-Bombay extended help, he did not need it then. He confirmed that several of his friends also faced revoked offers, though some secured other positions.
The professor highlighted the challenge for institutes in helping students after the main placement phases conclude. "By June and July it becomes difficult for the institutes too to help with placements," he acknowledged. Placement cells are now attempting to engage with higher authorities in the offending companies. The professor also pointed out other malpractices, including companies that reduced salary packages after issuing offer letters.
A New Focus on Startups and the Road Ahead
In response to a slower job market, IITs are strategically pivoting. This year, there is a heightened emphasis on encouraging participation from startups promoted by the Central government under the Viksit Bharat programme. The aim is to broaden opportunities for graduates.
"The job market is slow, but we are trying to reach out to many more companies and encourage start-ups incubated on prominent campuses to reach the best targets," the professor stated, expressing optimism that the current placement season has begun on a positive note despite the challenges.
The collective action by the IITs sends a clear message about protecting student interests and maintaining the integrity of the campus placement process, while also adapting to evolving economic conditions.
