Education – Forum Rejects Allegations, Reaffirms Push for Equity Law
Education – The All India Forum for Equity on Monday convened a national conference, dismissing what it called a coordinated attempt to tarnish a countrywide campaign demanding the enforcement of UGC Equity Regulations and the proposed Rohith Act. Representatives of the forum maintained that recent criticism and disruptions were aimed at weakening a movement that has gathered pace across universities.
Conference Addresses Allegations and Campus Tensions
Organisers said the meeting was called in response to what they described as a sustained effort to discredit protests linked to equity reforms in higher education. The forum pointed to incidents reported on February 12 and 13, during which demonstrators in some locations allegedly faced attacks. According to speakers, these events have not deterred activists but instead strengthened their resolve to continue advocating for institutional safeguards and accountability.
The forum reiterated that its demands centre on creating a fair and inclusive academic environment, particularly for students from historically marginalised communities. It urged the government to move forward with legislative measures that would formalise protections under the Rohith Act.
Nationwide Observance of Vanchit Adhikaar Diwas
Despite what organisers described as obstacles, the forum said Akhil Bharatiya Vanchit Adhikaar Diwas was observed at more than 100 centres across India. Events included public meetings, discussions and campus gatherings focused on equity in higher education.
Participants said the widespread observance reflected growing awareness among students and faculty members. Speakers at the conference stressed that the movement is not limited to a few campuses but has evolved into a broader call for structural reforms within universities and colleges.
Academics and Student Groups Express Support
Among those who addressed the gathering were historian S Irfan Habib, academic Apoorvanand and activist Hemlata Mahishwar. Progressive student organisations such as the Students’ Federation of India, AISA and DSF also conveyed their support for the campaign.
Habib referred to the disruption of one of his recent lectures at Delhi University. He alleged that the incident illustrated a pattern of intimidation on campuses and raised concerns about academic freedom. According to him, disagreement and debate should not lead to obstruction or threats.
Apoorvanand spoke about what he described as a shrinking democratic space in educational institutions. He cited recent reports of confrontations, including alleged incidents within police premises, and said such developments demand closer scrutiny to ensure that constitutional rights are upheld.
Focus on Social Justice in Higher Education
Hemlata Mahishwar drew attention to the longstanding challenges faced by students belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. She argued that meaningful equity reforms are essential if public universities are to become platforms where marginalised communities can participate fully and take leadership roles in democratic processes.
Several student activists also shared personal experiences during the conference. Rovin, a student from Delhi University, recounted facing caste-based remarks during recent protests. Others, including Anjali and Tanvi, described receiving threats on social media and experiencing hostility that they attributed to rival student groups.
Aishe Ghosh emphasised the importance of safeguarding public universities as spaces committed to social justice and open dialogue. She said institutions of higher learning must remain accessible and free from fear if they are to fulfil their academic mission.
Plans for State-Level Expansion
The forum concluded the conference by outlining its next steps. It announced plans to organise state-level meetings in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh in the coming weeks. A convention in Bihar is expected to take place before February 24.
Organisers said these gatherings would focus on consolidating support for equity regulations and pressing policymakers to consider their demands. They expressed hope that sustained engagement across states would keep the conversation on inclusive education active at both academic and legislative levels.