Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by Vikash Pandit
New Delhi, March 27, 2024: The All India Student Association (AISA Delhi) has extended its support to the students of Ashoka University who are advocating for a caste census within the campus. The students are urging for a comprehensive assessment encompassing students, faculty, administration, and staff to address issues of caste-based discrimination and promote social justice.
The protest, initiated by the students in front of the Ashoka University Gate, follows a week-long sit-in demonstration. Key demands of the students include affirmative action measures such as reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) students. Additionally, they are calling for the establishment of a memorial lecture named after Babasaheb Ambedkar to raise awareness about marginalization and social inequality.
The Social Justice Forum (SJF), representing the students, has highlighted the challenges faced during the protest, including resistance from the university administration in setting up a tent for the demonstrators. Despite these hurdles, the students remained resolute in their demands and successfully erected the tent to continue their protest.
Furthermore, in response to the students’ agitation, Ashoka University has committed to establishing an Equal Opportunity Cell. This cell aims to enhance policies related to inclusion and diversity within the institution, with a focus on recommending improvements and fostering sensitization. Comprising faculty, staff, and elected student representatives, the Equal Opportunity Cell is set to play a pivotal role in promoting an environment of equity and fairness on campus.
Also Read