Education – NCSC Seeks Response Over Alleged Bias at Andhra University
Education – The National Commission for Scheduled Castes has stepped into a dispute involving Andhra University after a research scholar alleged caste-based discrimination and prolonged delays in receiving fellowship funds. The commission has issued formal notices to the university’s Vice-Chancellor and the Visakhapatnam City Police Commissioner, seeking detailed explanations over the matter.
Complaint Raises Questions Over Fellowship Delay
The case was initiated following a complaint submitted by doctoral fellow Yadala Praveen Kumar, who claimed that his fellowship payments had been pending for several months. According to the complaint, the delay stretched for nearly eight to nine months, creating financial hardship and affecting his academic work. He also alleged that there had been negligence in submitting utilisation certificates linked to the fellowship process.
Apart from the financial concerns, the complainant accused the authorities of caste-based discrimination. The allegations prompted the National Commission for Scheduled Castes to take cognisance of the issue and begin formal proceedings.
Commission Expresses Displeasure Over Lack of Response
The commission stated that it had earlier directed Andhra University to provide a report within 15 days. However, officials reportedly failed to submit the required response within the specified timeline. This lack of compliance drew strong criticism from the statutory body.
In notices issued on May 13, the commission expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as continued inaction by the university administration. The NCSC warned that failure to respond could lead to stronger measures under provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Constitutional Powers Highlighted by NCSC
The commission also reminded the concerned authorities about the powers granted to it under Article 338 of the Constitution. It noted that the body functions with authority similar to that of a civil court while examining complaints related to Scheduled Castes.
Officials were informed that if replies are not submitted within the stipulated period, the commission may proceed with summons and further legal action. The warning reflects the seriousness with which the panel is examining the allegations made in the complaint.
Fellowship Responsibility Clarified for Universities
In its communication, the NCSC also referred to guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of Social Justice. According to those directions, universities are expected to ensure that fellowship payments continue without interruption, even if grants from the Central government are delayed.
The commission observed that institutions cannot leave scholars without financial support due to administrative or funding-related delays. It underlined that universities are responsible for arranging payments from their own resources until government assistance is received.
The issue has once again drawn attention to the challenges faced by research scholars dependent on fellowships for academic and living expenses. Delayed payments have been a recurring concern in several educational institutions across the country, often affecting students from economically weaker backgrounds more severely.
Authorities Yet to Submit Detailed Explanation
As of now, Andhra University and the Visakhapatnam City Police Commissioner’s office have not publicly released detailed responses regarding the allegations mentioned in the complaint. The commission stated that further steps would depend on the explanations submitted by the authorities concerned.
The matter is expected to remain under review until the NCSC receives all relevant documents and clarifications. Depending on the findings, the commission may consider additional proceedings under applicable legal provisions.