Student death raises caste bias concerns, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan

T'puram: Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Tuesday that the death of Nithin Raj, a first-year BDS student from Uzhamalackal in Thiruvananthapuram, has raised concerns, with reports of caste-based discrimination emerging at the institution. Raj, who was studying at a private medical college in Anjarakandy, Kannur, allegedly committed suicide on Friday. Vijayan said the details that surfaced after his death were unacceptable for a state like Kerala and warrant closer scrutiny.In a social media message marking the birth anniversary of reformer BR Ambedkar, he wrote that Ambedkar had dedicated his life to eliminating caste divisions in society and that his interventions to ensure social justice remain relevant even today. He said reports of caste discrimination continuing in higher educational institutions are a matter of concern. "It is time to examine whether the values Kerala has upheld as a society are weakening," he said.Describing Raj as a meritorious student, the CM said those responsible (if any) for driving him to such a situation committed an unpardonable offence. He added that the state stands with Raj's family. Vijayan reiterated the demand for implementing a law to address caste discrimination on campuses, referring to the proposed Rohith Vemula Act, named after the PhD student at the University of Hyderabad who committed suicide in 2016. He said the Centre has not acted on the demand till date.He further said the Supreme Court had stayed the guidelines issued by University Grants Commission on the issue. Seeking a collective response, Vijayan said society must stand united against discrimination and work to strengthen the values of equality and social justice. He also extended greetings on the birth anniversary of Ambedkar.
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