Education – Central Universities Strengthen Action Against Discrimination
Education – The Union government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that central universities remain free from discrimination and provide structured mechanisms for grievance redressal.
The Ministry of Education has directed central universities across India to remain vigilant against any form of caste-based discrimination and to establish accessible systems for reporting such incidents. The assurance was given in the Rajya Sabha by Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar in response to questions raised by Member of Parliament Samirul Islam.
Government Push for Stronger Oversight
Addressing a written query, the minister clarified that central universities operate under the direct supervision of the Education Ministry. He noted that these institutions are periodically reminded to sensitise faculty members and administrative staff to prevent discriminatory practices on campus.
Universities have been advised to create transparent channels through which students and employees can submit complaints. These include dedicated online portals and complaint registers. Institutions have also been instructed to act swiftly against individuals found responsible for discriminatory behaviour.
According to the minister, universities are encouraged to form dedicated committees to handle grievances related to discrimination faced by students and staff belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. These bodies are expected to examine complaints thoroughly and recommend appropriate action.
Safeguards for Students from Marginalised Groups
Majumdar further informed the House that the Ministry and the University Grants Commission have introduced multiple protective measures over the years. These include the establishment of student grievance redressal committees and the appointment of ombudspersons to independently review complaints.
Equal opportunity cells have also been set up in several institutions to address issues affecting disadvantaged groups. In addition, universities are required to provide counselling support and follow strict guidelines aimed at curbing ragging and preventing sexual harassment on campus.
The government emphasised that these steps are part of a broader effort to create inclusive academic environments and to ensure that students from all backgrounds feel safe and supported during their studies.
Data Sought on Caste-Based Incidents
MP Samirul Islam had sought details regarding the number of caste-based discrimination cases reported over the past five years, along with an annual breakdown and the status of pending matters. While the minister did not provide specific figures in his response, he underlined the government’s focus on strengthening reporting mechanisms and ensuring accountability at the institutional level.
The response signals the Centre’s intent to keep a close watch on compliance by universities and to reinforce systems that promote fairness and equality in higher education.
Steps to Address Mental Health Concerns in IITs
In a separate reply to another question raised in the Rajya Sabha by MP P P Sameer, the minister addressed concerns about rising student suicides at the Indian Institutes of Technology over the past two years.
Majumdar stated that a comprehensive strategy has been adopted to support students’ mental and emotional wellbeing. Institutes have expanded counselling services and introduced outreach efforts aimed not only at students but also at faculty members and families. The approach seeks to identify stress factors early and provide timely assistance.
National Task Force Formed After Supreme Court Order
The minister also referred to a recent directive of the Supreme Court dated March 24, 2025, following which a National Task Force has been constituted. The panel is chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice S Ravindra Bhat and has been tasked with examining the underlying causes of student suicides.
The Task Force will review existing institutional regulations, analyse patterns contributing to mental health crises and recommend measures to strengthen safeguards for students. Its findings are expected to guide future policy decisions aimed at preventing such tragedies.
Through these combined efforts, the government has indicated that it intends to address both discrimination and mental health challenges within higher education institutions in a structured and sustained manner.