25.12.24...Untouchablity News.....अछूत समाचार.தீண்டாமை செய்திகள்.by Team சிவாஜி. शिवाजी .Shivaji.asivaji1962@gmail.com.9444917060.
They also warned MPs belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes should join the demonstrations or face defeat in the next elections.
Shemin Joy
New Delhi: Dalit and Adivasi organisations will hold nationwide protests on Saturday against Home Minister Amit Shah seeking his resignation and apology for the “insulting” remarks against BR Ambedkar, as they warned MPs belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to join the demonstrations or face defeat in the next elections.
Announcing the programme at district and taluk level across the country at 1 pm on December 28, National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) Chairman Ashok Bharti said several organisations would join the protests against Shah’s remarks, which was “not an off-the-cuff” remark but an “intentional and premeditated act born out of hatred the RSS holds against Ambedkar”.
“We demand an unqualified apology from Shah, he should resign. We are also equally shocked at the studied silence from all NDA and BJP ministers and MPs, who have been elected from the reserved seats, which became a reality only because of Ambedkar,” he told a press conference. Jai Bhim Mission president and former Delhi Minister Rajendra Pal Gautam said it was Ambedkar who helped several marginalised people liberate from “hell” they experienced in the world and “one should never forget that the RSS and Hindu Mahasabha had always opposed Ambedkar”. Delhi Hindu College Professor Ratan Lal said one line was hidden in Shah’s remarks in which he invoked God and heaven and it also meant to say that those who chant Ambedkar’s name would go to hell.
“They will make statues and bhavans in the name of Ambedkar but want to bury his teachings. It is clear now. Their issue was not with Mohd Ali Jinnah. Their issue was with Ambedkar and Jawaha9rlal Nehru. They were western educated, modern, secular and liberal. That was a problem for them,” he said.
Dalit activist Prashant Anand recalled the 2018 Bharat Bandh called by NACDAOR against firing on Dalit activists and said the present protest would be wider and stronger. Asked whether they would take legal recourse, Ratan Lal said it is not a legal issue but a “political, ideological and moral” question. “This is not just the fight of SCs and STs, it is an ideological warfare,” he added.
Courtesy : DH
Dalit Professor Faces Exclusion at IIM Bangalore: How Dalits are Shut Out from Equal Opportunities at IIMs
The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are renowned for their academic excellence and prestige, but they have also faced criticism for not providing equitable opportunities for individuals from marginalised communities, particularly Dalits. Despite the Indian Constitution mandating a reservation policy for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), many IIMs continue to fall short of achieving inclusivity
One of the most notable examples of Dalit exclusion is the experience of Dr. Gopal Das, a Dalit professor at IIM Bangalore. His account of marginalisation highlights the systemic barriers faced by Dalits in India’s top educational institutions. In a report published on December 22, 2024, Dr. Das described how, despite his academic expertise, he was consistently sidelined, excluded from key classroom discussions, and offered little support from colleagues. His ideas were frequently dismissed, and his presence often ignored, illustrating a deeply entrenched culture of caste-based discrimination, even in an institution that prides itself on academic excellence. Dr. Das’ experience is not an isolated one but a reflection of the wider pattern of exclusion Dalits face at India’s elite institutions.
Caste-Based Exclusion: Is it a trend at IIMs?
IIM Lucknow has recently come under scrutiny for its failure to adhere to the faculty reservation policies mandated by the Indian Constitution. According to a 2024 RTI response obtained by the All India OBC Students Association (AIOBCSA), the institution has not adequately represented marginalised communities, including OBC, SC, ST, and EWS candidates. Out of 103 sanctioned faculty positions, a significant 85.43% are held by General Category candidates, with only a small proportion of positions filled by individuals from OBC (2.9%), SC (1.9%), and none for ST and EWS categories. These disparities raise serious questions about the institution’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, especially in a country where reservation policies aim to correct historical inequities.
The issue of inadequate representation at IIM Lucknow is not isolated. Both IIM Indore and IIM Tiruchirapalli have faced similar criticisms due to their failure to appoint faculty from marginalised communities, according to recent RTI findings. At IIM Indore, 41 out of 150 faculty positions remain vacant, with no representation from SC or ST categories and only two faculty members from the OBC category. Similarly, IIM Tiruchirapalli has alarming figures, with 83.33% of OBC, 86.66% of SC, and 100% of ST faculty positions vacant. These statistics point to a broader systemic failure across India’s premier educational institutions to implement affirmative action policies effectively, undermining the principle of equal opportunity.
A 2019 government report revealed that out of the 1,148 faculty members across 20 IIMs, only 11 were from Dalit or Adivasi communities, comprising just 0.96% of the total faculty strength. Alarmingly, 12 of these 20 IIMs had no representation from these communities at all.
Several IIMs, such as Ahmedabad, Calcutta, and Bangalore, have been particularly criticised for their failure to hire Dalit professors. These institutions often argue that they prioritise the preservation of academic quality and reputation, but such claims overlook the structural barriers that prevent Dalits, particularly those from rural areas, from accessing opportunities in elite institutions like the IIMs. These individuals often lack the networks and resources necessary to build a career in such prestigious environments.
Disparities in Research Funding: A Closer Look at Caste Representation
India’s research funding landscape has long been criticised for its lack of transparency regarding caste-based data. Many funding agencies, including the Department of Science and Technology (DST), do not disclose or collect caste-related information about their recipients. However, data shared with Nature by the DST highlights concerning disparities in two key funding schemes between 2016 and 2020. The INSPIRE Faculty Fellowships, aimed at supporting postdoctoral researchers, saw 80% of recipients from privileged castes, with only 6% from Scheduled Castes (Dalits) and less than 1% from Scheduled Tribes (Adivasis). A similar trend was observed in the DST’s Technology Development and Transfer Division grants, where 81% of funds went to individuals from general castes, with marginalised groups receiving minimal support.
These figures, revealed through information requests to Nature, expose a significant gap in caste representation within India’s research funding system. While the DST claims that selections were made “strictly based on merit,” the lack of opportunities for Dalits and Adivasis raises concerns about systemic inequality. Though application success rates were not provided, the data points to a broader issue of underrepresentation for marginalised groups in science and technology. The lack of diversity in these vital funding programmes underscores the need for reforms to ensure equitable access to research opportunities for all communities.
Resistance to Change: Calls for Exemption from Reservation Policies
In a significant move, all IIMs collectively sought an exemption from the reservation policy for faculty positions in 2020. In a letter to the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), they argued that a merit-based approach, rather than reservations, should govern faculty recruitment. This request was met with widespread criticism, with many arguing that such exemptions would only perpetuate caste-based exclusion, deepening inequality within India’s elite institutions. IIM Ahmedabad, in particular, made headlines for not complying with the reservation mandate for faculty positions. Despite its status as one of India’s premier institutions, its refusal to adhere to the reservation policy raised questions about its commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
The Impact of Missing Faculty Representation from ST/SC or OBC Categories
The absence of faculty members from ST, SC, or OBC categories in educational institutions goes beyond representation — it significantly affects the overall academic environment. A lack of diversity within the faculty body can limit the range of perspectives and experiences that students are exposed to, ultimately shaping the quality of their education and professional development. This is especially critical in institutions that aim to provide inclusive learning environments and prepare students to tackle diverse global challenges.
Lack of Intellectual Diversity: The absence of faculty from ST, SC, or OBC categories negatively impacts intellectual diversity within academic institutions. A diverse faculty body fosters varied perspectives essential for innovative thinking. For example, the Chevrolet Nova’s marketing failure in Latin America was partly due to the lack of local insights, as the product’s name, “Nova,” meant “no go” in Spanish. A faculty comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those from marginalised communities, would be better equipped to provide insights that resonate with a broader audience. This diversity enriches students’ educational experiences and better prepares them for real-world challenges.
Missing Role Models for Marginalised Students: In addition to intellectual diversity, the lack of faculty from underrepresented backgrounds means students from these communities often struggle to find role models. While many institutions have made strides in diversifying the student body through quotas and scholarships, the absence of professors who share similar life experiences can leave students feeling disconnected. Dalit or Adivasi students, in particular, may find it difficult to relate to professors who have not faced challenges such as poverty or caste discrimination. The lack of relatable mentors can demotivate these students and hinder their academic growth. Faculty members from similar backgrounds can provide essential guidance and encouragement, helping these students overcome obstacles and succeed.
Bias in Decision-Making and Limited Guidance: Another significant consequence of the lack of faculty diversity is the potential for biased decision-making. Many business decisions, especially in sectors like FMCG, are influenced by stereotypes held by those in power, who are often from privileged backgrounds. For instance, marketing products as vegetarian based on the assumption that “all Indians are vegetarian” reflects a bias rooted in the experiences of upper-caste decision-makers. Without a diverse faculty, students are not exposed to perspectives that challenge such stereotypes, which can shape their future business decisions in ways that misunderstand or exclude large sections of society. Additionally, students from marginalised backgrounds, who often face lower placement rates and salary disparities, would benefit from professors who have lived through similar struggles. These professors could offer valuable mentorship and guidance, helping these students navigate their challenges and achieve success in their careers.
Last Word
While Dalits have made significant strides in education due to affirmative action policies, the fight for true inclusivity in higher education is far from over. IIMs and other elite Indian institutes must take more concrete steps to comply with reservation policies and ensure that marginalised communities are given equal opportunities to thrive.
The experience of the Dalit professor at IIM Bangalore serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing barriers Dalits face in their pursuit of academic excellence. It is time for India’s elite institutions to recognise that true merit cannot be separated from the socio-economic conditions in which students and faculty members grow and develop.
Courtesy : TOI
Chhattisgarh: Dalit Man Tied To Tree, Beaten to Death Over Suspicions of Stealing Rice
Activists say that provisions under mob lynching should also be invoked in the case while the police says it does not come under BNS’s definition of such an offence.
New Delhi: Three people were arrested for allegedly beating a Dalit man to death in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district on Sunday (December 24).
The incident has sparked a controversy as activists claim that it was a case of mob lynching while the police has asserted that it does not come under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita’s (BNS) definition of such an offence.
According to the Indian Express, Virendra Sidar, the prime suspect in the case, found the victim, Panchram Sarthi, sneaking into his home around 2 am to allegedly steal rice. Sidar then called his neighbours Ajay and Ashok Pradhan, and the three of them tied Sarthi to a tree.
The police arrived at the scene at 6 am after the village sarpanch informed them of the incident. The police claim that Sarthi was beaten with bamboo sticks, kicked and punched.
The three accused were booked for murder under section 103 (1) of BNS, while investigation about the involvement of more people in the case is underway, the paper reported.
However, activists say that provisions under mob lynching should also be invoked in the case.
Section 103(2) of the BNS defines mob lynching as “when a group of five or more persons acting in concert commits murder on the ground of race, caste or community, sex, place of birth, language, personal belief or any other similar ground each member of such group shall be punished with death or with imprisonment for life, and shall also be liable to fine”.
Lawyer and activist Degree Prasad Chouhan told the Indian Express, “It does not matter what was the reason behind attacking him. Can they take law in their hands? It’s a case of mob lynching.”
Courtesy : The Wire
UBJP deploys CMs to target ‘anti-Dalit’ opposition
NEW DELHI: BJP on Tuesday launched a counter-offensive against Congress, with its chief ministers across the country highlighting instances where they claim Congress functionaries had “humiliated” B R Ambedkar.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath accused Congress of disrespecting Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution, both during his lifetime and posthumously. Addressing a press conference, he accused India’s first PM, Jawaharlal Nehru, of opposing Ambedkar’s inclusion in the Constitution Drafting Committee. He added Congress and SP shared a history of neglecting Dalits, although he avoided mentioning BSP, which had also protested Shah’s comments. He contrasted BJP’s efforts to honor Ambedkar with Congress’s alleged disrespect, noting his party’s initiatives like building memorials in significant places linked to Ambedkar’s life.
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel pointed out Congress’s refusal to award the Bharat Ratna to Ambedkar, while focusing on “one family’s glorification”. He criticised Congress for attacking home minister Amit Shah’s comments out of context to fuel political drama. Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi said Nehru insulted Ambedkar and demanded that Congress apologise for their actions, particularly highlighting the first PM’s opposition in elections against Ambedkar. Majhi also pointed out Congress’s preference for Muslim quotas over those for SCs and STs, leading to Ambedkar’s resignation from Nehru’s cabinet.
They collectively accused Congress of a long-standing pattern of undermining Ambedkar’s legacy, using recent political debates as a platform to revisit these historical grievances. MP CM Mohan Yadav said Congress netas had circulated a doctored video of Shah to create a confusion about Ambedkar, which is another testimony to frustration within Congress.
DALIT NEWS OF KARNATAKA.
Kalaburagi bandh total, stone throwing in several areas
The activists set on fire at least 500 tyres in parts of the city, creating a tense atmosphere.
KALABURAGI: The bandh call given by Dalit organisations to condemn the statement by Home Minister Amit Shah about Dr BR Ambedkar in the Rajya Sabha brought Kalaburagi city to a halt on Tuesday.
The atmosphere in the city was tense with sporadic incidents of stone pelting in some areas and protestors burning hundreds of tyres on major roads.
While some business establishments stayed shut voluntarily, many did not open their shutters fearing violence as activists of the Dalit Sangharsha Samithi moved around in vehicles along the main roads and interior areas of the city, blocking roads and ensuring that shops were closed.
The activists set on fire at least 500 tyres in parts of the city, creating a tense atmosphere. Even children were seen blocking roads and asking shop owners not to open shops. In stone pelting incidents, the windshields of a lorry were damaged. Stones were also thrown at several cars. However, no casualties have been reported.
The protesters burnt photos of Shah in several areas of the city. A procession was taken out carrying an effigy of the home minister from Nagareshwara School to Mini Vidhana Soudha. They shouted slogans against Shah, demanding an apology from him for insulting Ambedkar and urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to sack him from the cabinet.
The activists submitted a memorandum addressed to the PM to the Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner.
Courtesy : TNIE
Dalit family attacked over waste disposal, 4 held
Meerut: Four people were arrested after a Dalit family in Baghpat was attacked by over two dozen people following an argument over throwing garbage outside the house of a neighbour on Sunday, said police.
The attackers, belonging to an upper caste, armed with sharp weapons and sticks, barged into the family’s house in Sakrod village, under Khekra police station, leaving several family members injured. A video of the assault, which has been doing rounds on social media, sparked outrage.
Nitin Kumar, a member of the family, said, “The mob assaulted us with sharp weapons. They vandalised the house and also attacked the women in the family. The doors were broken, and two cars and a bike parked in the house were damaged. We feared for our lives at that moment.”
The family of farmers locked themselves in a room, pleading for mercy, but the attackers continued their assault, injuring several members of the family, including women.
An FIR has been registered under various BNS sections, including house trespass, assault on women, attempt to murder and property damage, and section 2/5 of SC/ST Act, in the matter.
Accused Deepu Kumar (20), Shailendra Singh (23), Shiva (22) and his father Pankaj (45) — all farmers — have been arrested so far. “We are scanning CCTV footage to identify others involved in the attack. The injured people were sent to hospital,” Khekra circle officer Preeta Singh said.
Meerut: Four people were arrested after a Dalit family in Baghpat was attacked by over two dozen people following an argument over throwing garbage outside the house of a neighbour on Sunday, said police.
The attackers, belonging to an upper caste, armed with sharp weapons and sticks, barged into the family’s house in Sakrod village, under Khekra police station, leaving several family members injured. A video of the assault, which has been doing rounds on social media, sparked outrage.
Nitin Kumar, a member of the family, said, “The mob assaulted us with sharp weapons. They vandalised the house and also attacked the women in the family. The doors were broken, and two cars and a bike parked in the house were damaged. We feared for our lives at that moment.”
The family of farmers locked themselves in a room, pleading for mercy, but the attackers continued their assault, injuring several members of the family, including women.
An FIR has been registered under various BNS sections, including house trespass, assault on women, attempt to murder and property damage, and section 2/5 of SC/ST Act, in the matter.
Accused Deepu Kumar (20), Shailendra Singh (23), Shiva (22) and his father Pankaj (45) — all farmers — have been arrested so far. “We are scanning CCTV footage to identify others involved in the attack. The injured people were sent to hospital,” Khekra circle officer Preeta Singh said.
Courtesy : TOI
Muslim leaders rally around Ambedkar issue to forge unity with Dalits against injustice
Hyderabad: The recent remarks by Home Minister Amit Shah against Dr. B.R. Ambedkar has created ripples across the socio-political landscape. Muslim organizations, Ulema, and community leaders are equally perturbed. This development is being viewed as a ‘golden opportunity’ to forge alliances with Dalits and other marginalized sections of society to address shared grievances and confront communal forces that seek to suppress their rights.
A consultative meeting held the other day under the auspices of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind’s Mushawarati Council, Telangana, deliberated on this issue. The participants expressed a strong consensus on the need for a unified approach. Maulana Ahmed Wamiz Nadvi of Darul Uloom, Hyderabad, emphasized that Muslims have long been reactive and defensive when their religion, properties, or rights are attacked. He argued that the community must now adopt an offensive stance, leveraging the Ambedkar issue to highlight the broader injustices faced by minorities and weaker sections. “This is the time to go on the offensive by seizing the Ambedkar issue and the insulting remarks of the Home Minister against the father of the Constitution,” he stated. Nadvi’s sentiments resonated with the broader group, which unanimously agreed that solidarity with Dalits could serve as a significant step forward.
Build bridges with Dalits
The suggestion to build bridges with Dalits and marginalized communities is not new but carries renewed urgency in light of the current political climate. The participants drew inspiration from the Palestinian resistance against Israel, which they believe exemplifies a strong offensive stance against oppression. Mufti Tajammul Husain aptly summarized the sentiment, saying, “Strike when the iron is hot.” He urged Muslim leaders and organizations to actively reach out to Dalits and other marginalized groups and become their voice. According to him, this outreach should not be limited to symbolic gestures but must encompass genuine efforts to address shared concerns and foster solidarity.
The meeting chaired by Abdul Majeed Shoeb, secretary of JIH, took place at Mediaplus auditorium. It was convened to find a solution to the burning issues facing the community.
Mufti Omer Abubakar of the All India Milli Council added another dimension to the discussion, emphasizing the need for action at all levels. He urged everyone to contribute within their respective spheres to awaken the community to the significance of the insult directed at Ambedkar. He highlighted that such moments, if strategically utilized, could galvanize the oppressed and strengthen their resolve to fight for justice collectively.
Nayyar talks of ‘Hilful Fuzul’
One of the most thought-provoking contributions came from Ziauddin Nayyar, President of Tameer-e-Millat, who drew a parallel between the current situation and the ‘Hilful Fuzul’ pact of the Prophet Muhammad in Makkah. The Hilful Fuzul was an alliance formed by various tribes to protect the rights of the oppressed, irrespective of their religion or social status. Nayyar argued that this historical precedent provides valuable lessons for Muslims today. He stressed the importance of forming alliances based on shared principles of justice and equality, rather than limiting efforts to intra-community issues. Such alliances, he said, could serve as a powerful counter to the divisive tactics employed by communal forces.
Maulana Ahmed Obaidur Rahman Athar, Khateeb, Masjid-e-Teenposh, said the Mushawarati Council was formed with a view to work out a plan of action to address the issues facing the Muslim community. But to date, no tangible progress has been made in this direction. He expressed concern at the indifference and called for reviving the original spirit of Mushawarati Council.
Pivotal moment for Muslims
The meeting concluded with a consensus that this is a pivotal moment for Muslims to extend their hands in solidarity with Dalits and other marginalized communities. The participants recognized that the issue of Ambedkar’s insult transcends community boundaries, as it strikes at the very foundation of India’s constitutional values. By making a common cause with Dalits, Muslims can demonstrate their commitment to these values while building a broader coalition to resist oppression.
The path forward requires not only strategic planning but also sincere efforts to address the grievances of all marginalized sections. Muslim organizations need to actively engage with Dalit leaders, amplify their voices, and participate in initiatives that promote social justice. This could include joint protests, public discussions, and collaborative efforts to challenge policies and practices that undermine the rights of minorities and weaker sections.
Invest in education
Furthermore, the community must invest in education and awareness campaigns to highlight the significance of Ambedkar’s contributions to India and the insult directed against him. This can help build a shared narrative of resistance and solidarity among marginalized groups. The offensive stance advocated by leaders like Maulana Wamiz Nadvi and Mufti Tajammul Husain must be matched with constructive actions that address long-standing social and economic disparities, the participants said.
The meeting felt the remarks against Ambedkar have indeed presented a unique opportunity to unite minorities and marginalized communities on a common platform. The challenge lies in translating this moment of realization into sustained action. By drawing lessons from history and working in tandem with other oppressed groups, Muslims can defend their rights but also contribute to building a more just and equitable society for all.
Courtesy : TSD
APTF proposes a plan to develop a Buddhist Circuit in collaboration with the Odisha govt. This initiative aims to showcase the historical spread of Buddhism from Odisha to AP
AP Can Achieve Rs 25k Cr Tourism Revenue In 5-Yrs With Buddhist Circuit Development
24 Dec 2024 ISThe Andhra Pradesh Tourism Forum President, K Vijay Mohan, advocates for a multi-pronged approach to boost AP’s tourism revenue. This includes developing a Buddhist Circuit in collaboration with Odisha, leveraging Andhra Pradesh's rich Buddhist heritage to attract tourists from ASEAN and other Buddhist-majority countries. The plan emphasizes targeted marketing, improved infrastructure, and the creation of compelling narratives around Buddhist sites to enhance the state's tourism offerings
Andhra Pradesh Tourism Forum (APTF) President K Vijay Mohan has called for drawing up an action plan to explore developing a Buddhist Circuit by tying up with Odisha government to showcase the historical importance of how Buddhism spread from Dhaulagiri in the neighbouring State to Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam, Guntur and other others in coastal areas of Andhra so as to achieve the target of Rs 25,000 crore revenue from tourism in the next five years.
The New Tourism Policy unveiled by the TDP-led NDA coalition government has aimed at increasing the revenue from tourism to Rs 25,000 crore by rejuvenating the tourism sector by offering a slew of incentives to areas identified as niche tourism and promoting theme-based tourism.
While welcoming the various features of the new policy, Vijay Mohan, who is also the president of Tours and Travel Association of Andhra (TTAA), told Bizz Buzz that there is a growing need for target marketing in ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) as Visakhapatnam has direct flights to Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia and flights are also connected to the whole of ASEAN and SDEAN Buddhist (Sri Lankan, Dharmapala East Asian and Nepal) and also and China, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea. Vijayawada has a direct flight to Sharjah. Talks are in progress to introduce more international flights from Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada.
Vijay Mohan said people in the ASEAN and SDEAN, who are of Indian origin or have some ancient roots in the sub-continent with allegiance to Buddhist ideals should be identified as the target market to boost revenue from tourism.
On the Monastery Circuit mooted by Vijay Mohan, he told Bizz Buzz that we need to work on promoting a Buddhist monastery at one of our important monuments. As a pilot project we can request Tsulglagkhang Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Tawang Monastery, Bylakuppe Monastery (Namdraling), Shashur Monastery, Ghum Monastery, Kye Gompa Monastery, Lingdum Monastery, Alchi Gompa Monastery, Matho Monastery, Nako Monastery, Rumtek Monastery or the creator of Samten Hills in Dalat, Vietnam, monk from Ladhak in India Drubwang Sonam Jorfel Rinpoche, to start Buddhist prayers at Amravati, Thotlakonda or any of the other Buddhist sites and also set up a Buddhist Monastery as the school of Buddhism will attract a lot of Buddhist travellers from across the world.
Vijay Mohan also pointed out that Odisha gets about 15,000 Europeans every year to visit their tribal circuits. "As a State we have not even designed our tribal circuit. We have to look at the Konda Dora and Bagatha tribes in the Araku area, the Savara, Jatapu (or Khonds), and Gadaba communities in Vizianagaram District, Jatapus, Saoras, Savaras tribes in Srikakulam district.
Asked why Buddhist from ASEAN and SDEAN and China, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea should be targeted, he said India is the birthplace of Buddhism, and Andhra Pradesh has significant sites. Buddhists share similar values and beliefs, fostering connections.
Visiting AP’s sacred Buddhist sites can deepen spiritual understanding. There is huge potential to attract tourists from ASEAN countries. People from Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and few other countries will show interest to visit but at present, they are not aware of the Buddhist connection of Andhra, he lamented.
"We can target about 200 million Buddhists in ASEAN and about 620 million Buddhists in China, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea. For instance, 31 per cent in Singapore are Buddhists, 93 per cent in Thailand, 60 per cent in Vietnam, 65 per cent in Laos, 95 per cent in Cambodia, 19 per cent in Malaysia, 67 per cent in Japan, 33 per cent in China, 22 per cent in Korea and 54 per cent in Mongolia."
Stating that India is the birthplace of Buddhism, with significant sites like Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar, SDEAN Buddhists share similar values and beliefs, fostering connections. "Visiting our sacred Buddhist sites can deepen spiritual understanding," he said, adding there is huge potential for tapping tourists from Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan who have a large number of people embracing Buddhism.
Vijay Mohan said, "We have around 12 million Indian origin people in ASEAN countries. Besides Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, Indonesia has 1.3 million Buddhists and Myanmar an estimated 2.9 million.”
Besides Buddhist monuments, which should be protected with required tourist amenities and connectivity from nearby airports, efforts should also be made to showcase the famous Shakti Peetas and temples including Tirumala Venkateswara temple, Simhadri Appanna temple near Visakhapatnam and Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada, he added.
"We have three Shakti Peetas out of the 18 Maha Shakti Peetas in our State at Srisailam, Pithapuram and Draksharam. And the other temples of AP at Tirupati, Arsavalli, Srikurmam, Srimukalingam, Simachalam, Annavaram, Pattiseema, Ramanarayana, Kanakadurga, Panakala Narisimha swamy temple, Mopidevi, Charurmukha Brahma Lingeshwata, Pavitra Sangam, Dwaraka Tirumala, Antarvedi, Pancharamas, Puttaparthi, Ahobilam, Srikalahasti, Kanipakam and Puspagiri, Yaganti should be showcased as tourism centres with good package trips or customised trips as per the preference of the foreign tourists.
The need of the hour, he said is to create a Buddhist Circuit along with a Monastery Circuit. "We need to create the Buddhist Circuit around our sites which would include Nagarjuna Konda, Amravati, Guntupalli, Ghantasala, Bhimavaram, Adurru, Kapavaram, Kotturu, Thotlakonda, Bavikonda, Pavurallakonda, Bojjana Konda and Salihundam," he stated.
On the need to spread the story with the theme ‘The Footsteps of Buddha,’ he said to get the Buddhist to visit AP's sites, the need is to create stories on the historical significance of the Buddhist sites which is the most important aspect to draw the Buddhist to spare their time and spend in Andhra Pradesh.
"In 2006, Dalai Lama gave the Kalachakra initiation in Amravati. He said he considered the site very important because the Buddha gave his first Kalachakra sermon at Amravati which is the biggest story and we create a story around all sites and we end at the Kalinga War which was fought at Dhauli in Bhubaneswar,” he added.
News Education Less Than 20% Faculty from Reserved Category, Are IITs & IIMs Upper Caste Clubs?
Less Than 20% Faculty from Reserved Category, Are IITs & IIMs Upper Caste Clubs?
RTI data reveals widespread violation in implementing quota while recruiting faculty in IITs and IIMs across India.
Over 97 percent of the faculty strength at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore belongs to the General Category or Unreserved Category. In contrast, there are no professors belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.
Similarly, over 91 percent of the faculty strength at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay belongs to the General or Unreserved Category. By comparison, faculty members belonging to the ST community form a meagre 0.88% of the total faculty strength.
These are findings from a clutch of Right to Information (RTI) applications filed by G Kiran Kumar, National President of the All India Other Backward Classes Student Association (AIOBCSA) in September this year.
The Quint has accessed these RTI applications only to find widespread violation in implementing reservations while recruiting faculty members in 21 of 23 IITs and at least 14 IIMs across India.
Not only is this in contravention with the Article 16(4) of the Indian Constitution but also with the Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers’ Cadre) Act, 2019, which mandates reservation in teachers’ cadre in educational institutions established, maintained or aided by the Central Government.
“The data from RTI responses also reveals that faculty members belonging to marginalised communities were predominantly recruited in the posts of Assistant Professor and not for Associate Professor or Professor, which are executive posts,” Kumar told The Quint.
Are IITs and IIMs truly inclusive as far as their faculty is concerned? Data from RTI applications does not paint a pleasant picture:
Over 75% General Faculty in Nearly Half of the IITs
In line with the Constitution of India and the Supreme Court guidelines, the government of India mandates reservations for persons belonging to marginalised communities in education and jobs —15 percent for SC, 7.5 percent for ST, 27 percent for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), 10 percent for those belonging to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and 5 percent for Persons with Disabilities (PwD).
In addition, the above mentioned 2019 Act enforces reservation of posts in direct recruitment out of the sanctioned strength in teachers' cadre in Central educational institutions.
However, data reveals that at least two IITs—Kharagpur and Bombay—have more than 90 percent of their faculty from the General category, leaving little to no room for those belonging to marginalised groups.
Further, in six IITs more than 80 percent of the faculty strength is from the General category.
As a result, the faculty members belonging to ST communities form 0.003 percent of the current faculty strength at IIT Kharagpur. Similarly, at IIT Kanpur, teachers from ST category 0.88 percent of the faculty strength.
In fact, in at least seven IITs, the strength of ST teachers is under one percent of the total faculty.
Among older IITs, which were formed before 2000, faculty recruitments are especially skewed in favour of the General category. Among the newer ones, however, IIT Patna and IIT Indore have a somewhat balanced faculty composition.
As a matter of fact, IIT Patna is the only institute where SC, ST and OBC faculty strength is more than General category. Meanwhile, IIT Madras has not yet responded to Kumar's RTI query.
Does This Not Violate the Law?
When asked to give a breakup of the sanctioned seats in order to clarify what percentage of the total seats were being reserved for each category, most IITs stated that they follow a “flexi cadre system for filling of vacancies by direct recruitment and promotions and hence post-wise details are not available.”
While IIT Kharagpur clarified that the sanctioned strength of the teachers’ cadre is considered at a ratio of 1:10 (faculty: students), making it dynamic; the institute did not state what the ‘flexi cadre system’ is.
“Unlike roster-based reservations wherein number of vacancies are put out category-wise, under the flexible cadre system, IITs do not publicise vacancies at all. Candidates are asked to apply year-round on the assurance that they will be called in case a vacancy arises,” explained Pranav, a PhD student from IIT Bombay.
He added that the flexible cadre system allows IITs to pick whoever they want. “It is a mask to make the recruitment process entirely opaque,” Pranav remarked.
In their RTI response, IIT Indore stated that — "reservation is applicable only for direct recruitment and Institute follow flexi cadre as per GOI norms." But does this mean that following the flexi cadre system can bypass the reservation norms?
The Quint has reached out to IITs mentioned in the story regarding the flexi-cadre system and will update the story once they respond. Meanwhile, in a Parliament response given in February this year, former MoS Education Dr Subhas Sarkar had stated that IITs have been directed to follow the 2019 Act and the guidelines issued by DoPT with regard to preparation of rosters. He added:
"IITs issues rolling advertisements for faculty recruitment, which are open throughout the year for all candidates, who fulfil the required qualifications and experience for faculty positions in IITs. Occurring of vacancies and filling thereof is a continuous process."
'SC/ST/OBC Faculty Not Being Recruited For Senior Posts'
Candidates applying for different posts are screened by a committee comprising of senior faculty members and professors, Pranav stated.
However, in most IITs—including Kanpur, Ropar, Mandi, Jammu, Gandhinagar, Dharwad, Bhilai and Palakkad—there are no professors belonging to SC or ST communities.
The negligible recruitment of faculty members belonging to marginalised communities is in the lower posts of Assistant Professor, and very rarely in the mid-level post of Associate Professor. It is to be noted that these posts do not hold executive, decision-making powers and they do not form a part of crucial policy-making committees.
So, for an institute such as IIT Bombay, where nearly 92 percent of the faculty is General and many departments have no professors from the SC/ST/OBC categories, the hiring committee is also predominantly General faculty members.
“As a result, a vicious circle is formed wherein professors from General category end up hiring faculty from General category. A similar situation arises during promotions, making it very difficult for an ST faculty member to become a Professor and voice challenges faced by students belonging to marginalised communities to affect any policy changes and make the campus more inclusive.”Pranav, PhD Student, IIT Bombay
Despite this under-representation, most vacancies are still in the General category, as per the RTI responses. And again, vacancies for SC/ST/OBC categories primarily lie in the non-executive posts.
At Least 8 IIMs With Less Than 20% Faculty from Reserved Categories
The situation is not better at Indian Institutes of Management. At least four IIMs—Calcutta, Lucknow, Indore and Udaipur—have more than 90 percent of their current faculty strength from the General category. Consequently, IIM Calcutta, Lucknow and Indore have no faculty belonging to the ST community.
Again, in at least four IIMs, including IIM Bangalore, more than 80 percent of the current faculty strength belongs to the General category in direct violation of the 2019 Act as well as the Indian Constitution.
The All India OBC Students Association in a statement issued on 9 December noted, “Such inequities not only contravene the reservation policy but also perpetuate systemic exclusion, impacting diversity and the aspirations of marginalised communities in academia.”
Last week, Karnataka’s Department of Social Welfare reportedly directed the Bengaluru Police to initiate action against officials, including the director, of IIM Bangalore over allegations of caste discrimination against Dr Gopal Das, an associate professor of marketing.
However, it wasn’t clear if IIMs were following the flexi cadre system or roster-based reservation for hiring faculty members. While IIM Mumbai stated that it followed the flexi-cadre system, IIM Ahmedabad stated that it “does not maintain category-wise data of faculty members".
Meanwhile, IIM Amritsar responded to the RTI query, saying, “It is stated that IIM Amritsar is an independent autonomous body established by the Act of the Parliament called IIM Act, 2017 and having separate Board of Governor.”
G Kiran Rao told The Quint that he has filed appeals to these responses to seek clear data.
Comments
Post a Comment