Pune’s Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce is under scrutiny after former student Prem Birhade accused the institution of caste discrimination regarding a withheld verification certificate. In a statement posted on social media, college principal Nivedita Ekbote defended the college’s actions, labeling Birhade’s conduct as “unsatisfactory.” She asserted that the college had issued him three recommendation letters and bona fide certificates in the past, rejecting any claims of bias.
Birhade, a Dalit youth currently residing in London, alleged that a U.K.-based firm sought confirmation of his studies at the college but received no response. He pointedly remarked, “Why? Because you don’t want us to get ahead in life. This is the struggle of me, my family, my community.” His comments, reported by The Hindu, highlight a broader concern regarding caste-based discrimination and the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Following Ekbote’s response, Birhade announced plans to file a defamation and harassment lawsuit against the college, reiterating his accusations of discrimination. In a video statement, he defiantly stated, “If you want us to hang a broom and a pot around our necks now, that is not going to happen.”
Additionally, Gajanan Ekbote, chairperson of the Progressive Education Society that governs the college and principal Nivedita Ekbote’s father, dismissed Birhade’s claims as “false and baseless.” He explained that earlier recommendation letters had been issued by retired faculty and emphasized the need for verification when a new request was made. “There was no delay. The company had not given us any deadline. We sent the letter as soon as we received a reminder,” he clarified.
The issue has drawn attention from prominent figures, including Prakash Ambedkar, leader of the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, who criticized the college’s handling of the situation. Ambedkar questioned the college’s sudden concerns about Birhade’s character, arguing that the college’s actions reflected a discomfort with a Dalit student’s success. “This isn’t about discipline. This is about discomfort. Discomfort with a Dalit student daring to rise beyond the limits society quietly sets for him!” he stated. He condemned the college’s actions as academic sabotage rooted in caste prejudice, adding, “What the college has done isn’t just unethical; it’s a targeted and discriminatory act.”
The situation underscores a persistent issue in Indian society regarding caste discrimination and the barriers faced by individuals from marginalized communities striving for success. As this case unfolds, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities and accountability of educational institutions in fostering an inclusive environment. Call this what it is: caste-based discrimination, which is not only morally wrong but also potentially criminal.
As it develops, this case may become a pivotal example of the challenges that Dalit individuals face in accessing opportunities and the broader societal implications of these discriminatory practices.
Delhi, caste discrimination, education, Prem Birhade, Modern College of Arts, Nivedita Ekbote, Prakash Ambedkar.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/row-over-caste-bias-college-says-students-conduct-was-unsatisfactory/article70180514.ece
Category : Delhi
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Publish Date: 2025-10-19 01:54:00
