Malayalam varsity scholar's protest over caste bias claims: independent probe sought

Anagha Sasi, a research scholar in the Department of Environmental Studies at Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University in Tirur, has begun an indefinite protest at the university gate. She alleges that she has faced caste-based discrimination and harassment from several teachers since 2024, and that her complaints have not been addressed effectively.

Ms. Sasi, a native of Kochi, claims that she was made to sweep classrooms, dust books and files, carry boxes and clean laboratory equipment. She also alleges that she was denied research support, forced to stand in the corridor without a chair, and told by one teacher that she must follow his instructions to continue her PhD. She further claims that a teacher told her that she received her fellowship because of her caste, not her ability.

According to her, she has filed multiple complaints over the past two years, but no effective action was taken. She also alleged that an inquiry committee appointed by the university produced reports against her. Her demand is that the teachers facing allegations be kept away from their duties pending an independent inquiry. She has said she will continue the protest until she gets justice.

The protest has drawn support from public representatives and organisations. P.K. Navas, MLA, expressed solidarity and said the government stands with the students. He called for an inquiry by an agency outside the university. Razak Paleri, state president of the Welfare Party of India, visited Ms. Sasi on Sunday and sought an independent inquiry into her allegations of caste-based abuse, academic discrimination, ragging, threats and academic retaliation.

Mr. Paleri also questioned the decision to assign the inquiry to the university Registrar, who, according to Ms. Sasi, had handled her earlier complaints. He demanded the immediate approval of her research guide and topic, and access to laboratory, library and other academic facilities.

The university, however, has rejected Ms. Sasi's allegations as unfounded. The institution has not yet announced any change in its inquiry process or responded to the demand for an external probe.

This protest comes amid broader discussions on the need to ensure a discrimination-free environment in educational institutions. The Constitution guarantees equality for all citizens, and universities are expected to uphold these values. The demand for an independent inquiry reflects concerns among students about the impartiality of internal investigation mechanisms.