Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin praised the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) latest regulations aimed at eradicating caste and gender biases in higher educational institutions. He emphasized the importance of these reforms to address long-standing issues of discrimination on campuses. Stalin expressed his strong support for the formation of Equality Committees in universities and colleges as mandated by the UGC to foster a more inclusive campus environment.
Stalin, in a social media post, highlighted the deep-rooted discrimination prevalent in India’s higher education system and lauded the UGC’s belated intervention as a step towards rectifying historical injustices faced by marginalized communities. He criticized the rise in suicides among Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students in higher education institutions since the BJP government took office at the Centre. Additionally, he condemned reported attacks and systemic discrimination against students from Southern states and minority groups.
The Chief Minister underscored the necessity of upholding equality and dignity within educational institutions, emphasizing that these safeguards are not optional but essential. He strongly opposed any attempts to retract the new guidelines, labeling such actions as regressive. Stalin urged the Union government to uphold the core objectives of social justice and equity without dilution, cautioning against succumbing to pressures that may compromise these principles.
Expressing concerns about the operational autonomy of the proposed Equality Committees, Stalin questioned their independence if they are established under the direct authority of institutional heads. He advocated for empowering these committees with genuine autonomy and ensuring their insulation from institutional hierarchies to enhance their effectiveness in combating discrimination and promoting inclusivity.
