Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Monday raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha over the alleged decline in social justice initiatives at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), highlighting a reported 25 per cent drop in the enrolment of students from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) categories. Singh argued that the trend reflects a failure in maintaining inclusive policies and ensuring representation for marginalized communities.

During the discussion in the upper house, Singh pointed out that JNU, historically known for its commitment to social equity and diversity, appears to be witnessing a decline in its efforts to support disadvantaged students. He emphasized that decreased enrolment of SC/ST students undermines the university’s foundational ethos and calls for immediate corrective measures to address gaps in access and support.

The Congress leader also urged the government and university authorities to review existing reservation and scholarship schemes to ensure that students from marginalized backgrounds are not excluded due to procedural hurdles or lack of awareness. He stressed that promoting social justice within higher education institutions is critical for empowering historically underrepresented communities and strengthening India’s democratic framework.

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Officials from JNU have not yet responded to Singh’s observations, but experts note that nationwide, several universities have been grappling with challenges in maintaining enrolment levels among SC/ST students, citing factors such as increased competition, affordability, and administrative barriers. They added that monitoring and transparent reporting mechanisms are crucial for ensuring equitable access to quality education.

Political analysts view Singh’s remarks as part of broader parliamentary oversight, highlighting the need for continuous attention to social justice issues in India’s higher education sector. The discussion also comes amid ongoing debates about access, inclusivity, and merit-based admissions, raising questions about the balance between diversity policies and academic standards in premier institutions.

Singh concluded by urging immediate interventions to reverse the declining trend, recommending targeted outreach programs, increased scholarships, and policy reforms to reinforce JNU’s commitment to social justice. He emphasized that ensuring equitable representation of SC/ST students is not only a constitutional mandate but also essential for cultivating an inclusive academic environment in India’s leading universities.

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