What is the Rohith Act? Provisions, origin, politics of a draft law to combat caste discrimination on campus

What is the Rohith Act?

The Rohith Act is a draft law proposed to combat caste discrimination in universities. It was triggered by the death of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula at the University of Hyderabad in 2016.

Provisions of the Rohith Act

The draft law proposes to address caste-based discrimination against students and staff from historically-marginalized communities within universities. It defines discrimination broadly, including direct, indirect, and institutional discrimination.

Origin of the Rohith Act

The campaign for a Rohith Act began after Rohith Vemula's death in 2016. Civil society groups and activists demanded a new law to prevent such discrimination. Ten years later, Karnataka is the only state to come close to having one.

Politics of the Rohith Act

The Karnataka government has drafted two versions of the Rohith Act. The first one, proposed by the civil-society coalition, Campaign for Rohith Act, provides for fines up to Rs 1 lakh and even three years' imprisonment for proven discrimination. The second one, drafted by the state government, extends protection to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and religious minorities, apart from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Importance of the Rohith Act

The Rohith Act is crucial for students from marginalized communities who face caste-based discrimination in universities. It aims to provide them with a safe and inclusive environment to learn and grow.

Importance for Students

This law matters for students from marginalized communities who face caste-based discrimination in universities. It aims to provide them with a safe and inclusive environment to learn and grow. The Rohith Act can help prevent such discrimination and promote equality and justice in higher education institutions.