Edu dept told to probe SC, ST complaint

MUMBAI: The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has taken cognisance of a complaint made by the Ambedkar Periyar Phule Study Circle (APPSC), a student collective at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – Bombay, alleging antireservation sentiments.

This was in response to a complaint regarding lack of mental health support for SC or ST students in IITs.

A November 1 dated notification sent to the state education department and a copy to APPSC states, “The commission has decided to investigate or inquire the matter in pursuance of the powers conferred upon it under Article 338A of the constitution of India. You are hereby requested to submit the facts and information on the action taken on the allegations or matters to the undersigned within 15 days of receipt of this notice.”

In July, APPSC had written to IIT-Bombay officials alleging that the head counsellor of Student Wellness Centre (SWC) was passing casteist remarks about reservation and questioning the merit of SC or ST students coming through reservation.

APPSC alleged that Anaredy had posted a casteist remark on her social media handle.

The comment was posted by Anaredy in 2015 but as it was still in public domain SC, ST students felt uncomfortable in availing the mental health counselling services from the SWC.

Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director, IIT-B, said, “We have not received any complaints from the students or any other body yet, hence we have not investigated. However, if something comes up from the National

Commission or any other higher authorities, we shall surely look into it.” Recently the IIT-Bombay began a student-oriented SC or ST cell and special mentorship programme for students from these communities on campus.