Caste bias: Students body seeks IIMB director's resignation

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore is under scrutiny following a probe by the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE), which allegedly uncovered evidence of caste-based discrimination against Dr. Gopal Das, an associate professor from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community. The findings have sparked nationwide outrage, with Bahujan organisations demanding the resignation of IIM-B Director Dr. Rishikesha T. Krishnan and legal action against the accused officials. The investigation, initiated by a complaint from Dr. Das, revealed violations, including the public disclosure of his caste, denial of equal opportunities, and the absence of mandated grievance redressal mechanisms for SC/ST employees.

Dr. Das, who joined IIM-B in 2018 under the general merit category, described his experience as one of "systematic humiliation and injustice." In a December 19 letter, the Karnataka Social Welfare Department confirmed the DCRE's findings and called for action against senior officials, including Director Dr. Krishnan and Dean (Faculty) Dr. Dinesh Kumar.

The report highlighted that Dr. Das's promotion was withheld under questionable circumstances, with the institution citing harassment complaints from doctoral students. Critics allege these complaints were fabricated in retaliation for his promotion application. Bahujan leaders and organisations, including the All India OBC Students Association (AIOBCSA), have condemned the institution's actions.

AIOBCSA President Kiran Kumar Gowd stated, "The Director must resign, and FIRs should be filed against all those responsible for this blatant caste-based discrimination. IIM Bangalore cannot claim to support diversity while failing to protect SC, ST, and OBC rights." IIM Bangalore defended its actions, citing harassment complaints and claiming adherence to diversity and inclusion policies.