IIT Delhi's SC/ST Representation Failure Laid Bare Before Parliamentary Committee

Concerns over the under-representation of Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) faculty at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi have been raised before a parliamentary panel, with a memorandum highlighting systemic gaps in hiring, institutional support, and campus inclusivity. The issues were presented to the Parliamentary Committee on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes during its review of constitutional safeguards for marginalised communities in premier educational institutions.

According to the memorandum submitted by SC/ST faculty members and students, several departments at IIT Delhi reportedly do not have a single faculty member from these communities. The document points to “severe under-representation” and alleges a prevailing sense of pessimism towards candidates from SC/ST backgrounds during recruitment processes, raising questions about fairness and inclusivity in hiring practices.

The memorandum further claims that candidates from these communities are subjected to undue scrutiny during selection procedures, which may contribute to their low representation. It also highlights the absence of adequate representation of SC/ST members in key decision-making bodies within the institute, potentially limiting their influence over academic and administrative policies.

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In addition to faculty-related concerns, the submissions also underline challenges faced by students, including insufficient academic support systems and a campus environment that may not be fully inclusive. The lack of mentorship and institutional backing for SC/ST students has been cited as a critical issue affecting their academic experience and overall well-being.

These concerns were raised nearly a year after the parliamentary committee's previous visit to the institute in April, during which similar issues had been flagged. The recurrence of these concerns suggests that structural gaps in implementation of safeguards and diversity measures continue to persist despite earlier recommendations.

The development has renewed focus on the need for stronger policy interventions and accountability mechanisms to ensure equitable representation and support for marginalised communities in higher education. The committee is expected to examine the submissions and may recommend measures to address disparities in recruitment, governance, and student support systems at institutions like IIT Delhi.

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