AIPF Statement on the New University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations
Practices such as ragging, social exclusion, verbal harassment, and caste-based targeting have existed in many institutions for years. Ignoring these problems does not make them disappear. Institutional and accountable mechanisms are needed to address injustice and discrimination.
The structure of the proposed Equity Committee is neither arbitrary nor biased. It will have the Vice-Chancellor as the chairperson, along with senior professors, two student representatives as members, and representation from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, women, and persons with disabilities is ensured. Such representation is necessary to make campuses safer, more democratic, and inclusive.
The AIPF is of the clear opinion that creating a formal system against discrimination is a necessary step towards justice, dignity, and equal opportunities in education. Presenting it as a step against any particular community is misleading and unfair.
The hearing and decision in the Supreme Court today should bring this issue to a close. No provocative actions should be taken by any party, so that public initiatives from all sections and classes of society can focus on fundamental demands such as education, health, employment, and social rights.
On behalf of the National Working Committee,
Dr. Rahul Das,
National General Secretary,
All India People's Front.