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Karnataka Minister Backs Rahul Gandhi's Call to End Caste Bias in Colleges

Karnataka Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar has emphasized the duty of institutions to protect marginalized communities in light of new UGC regulations. He reiterated Rahul Gandhi's call for stronger legislation to prevent discrimination in higher education, noting a state-drafted bill had previously faced concerns. Meanwhile, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured the new UGC rules would not be misused and that no discrimination would occur in their implementation. The updated regulations require colleges to set up committees and helplines to address complaints from SC, ST, and OBC students.

Key Points: Karnataka on UGC Rules: Duty to Protect Marginalised Communities

  • UGC rules aim to curb caste bias
  • State bill faced criticism
  • Calls for stricter enforcement
  • Committees for complaints mandated
2 min read

"Our duty to protect interests of marginalised communities": Karnataka Higher Education Minister on UGC guidelines

Minister MC Sudhakar supports Rahul Gandhi's push for anti-discrimination laws in higher education, as UGC's new regulations face scrutiny.

"We must address this issue, but at the same time, it is our duty to protect the interests of marginalised communities - MC Sudhakar"

Bengaluru, January 28

Karnataka Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar emphasised that higher education institutes must safeguard the interests of marginalised communities in light of the new University Grants Commission regulations.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Sudhakar reiterated Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi's call for stricter enforcement of laws against discrimination in educational institutions, adding that a bill drafted by the state government had faced criticism.

"Rahul Gandhi is repeatedly saying that we should bring in some legislation to see that discrimination should not happen in the places of higher education institutions. Our government had prepared a Bill regarding this, but some concerns were raised...," he said.

He further urged action from the higher education institutes in this regard, adding that the state government has discussed this discrimination.

"We must address this issue, but at the same time, it is our duty to protect the interests of marginalised communities such as ST, SC and backward classes. Higher education institutes should be above this... I have not talked to the CM, but he is aware of it. Discussions took place on this discrimination...," the Minister added.

Sudhakar also asserted that the state government is aiming to draft a bill to address the concerns on this matter.

"We are looking at bringing in equality and our Bill would address all these concerns...," he noted.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday sought to allay concerns over the new University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, assuring that the law would not be misused and that there would be no discrimination in its implementation.

Speaking to the reporters, Pradhan said," I assure everyone there will be no discrimination and no one can misuse the law."

The remarks come after new rules notified by the UGC on January 13, updating its 2012 regulations, sparked criticism from general category students, who argue that the framework could lead to discrimination against them.

The new regulations, introduced to curb caste-based discrimination in colleges and universities, require institutions to establish special committees and helplines to address complaints, especially from SC, ST, and OBC students.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Aman W
While protecting marginalised communities is important, the minister must ensure the solution doesn't create reverse discrimination. The focus should be on equality for ALL students. The bill needs careful drafting to avoid unintended consequences.
R
Rohit P
Good to see Karnataka taking initiative. Discrimination in elite colleges is a real issue that often gets swept under the rug. A helpline is a great idea. But will the committees be unbiased? That's the key question.
S
Sarah B
Interesting to see Rahul Gandhi's point being referenced here. The political angle is obvious, but if it leads to better protection for students, then it's a positive. The Union Minister's assurance is also crucial for broader acceptance of the rules.
K
Karthik V
The intent is noble, but execution is everything. We have many laws that are poorly implemented. Instead of just new committees, why not strengthen existing grievance cells and ensure they are sensitive? More bureaucracy isn't always the answer.
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Nisha Z
As a teacher, I welcome this. A safe, inclusive campus benefits everyone's learning. The focus should be on creating an environment where no student feels 'less than' because of their background. Education is the great leveller, after all. 📚

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