The Dark Shadow of Casteism in India’s Elite Institutions

The recent filing of an abetment FIR against Professor Suryanarayana Doolla, the Dean of Student Affairs at IIT-Bombay, in connection with the death of Sahil Wakode by suicide is a stark reminder of the long-standing issue of caste-based harassment and discrimination within India’s elite institutions. The case has left many shocked and outraged, highlighting the deep-seated problems that exist within these hallowed halls of learning.

The accusations against Professor Doolla are particularly disturbing given his position as invigilator during the exam where Wakode was caught using a mobile phone. The institute’s claims that no disciplinary action was initiated against Wakode and that he was counseled instead, ring hollow in light of allegations made by his parents and fellow students.

IIT-Bombay Director Professor Shireesh Kedare has denied caste-based discrimination on campus, but this denial is disingenuous given the pervasive nature of this issue. The fact that caste-based information of every student is allegedly hidden from view raises more questions than answers, pointing to a systemic problem that needs to be addressed.

The Wakode family’s refusal to claim their son’s body until action was taken against the accused professors was a powerful statement of protest against the systemic failures that led to Sahil’s death. The fact that police had to intervene to persuade them to take the body is a testament to the desperation and frustration felt by many families who have lost loved ones under similar circumstances.

This incident is not an isolated one; there have been several suicide cases on IIT-Bombay campus in recent years, with three reported this year alone. The lack of action taken against the institute or its officials in these cases is a damning indictment of the failure to address the root causes of these tragedies.

The state’s response has been disappointing, but Advocate Nikhil Kamble representing Wakode’s family has demanded a special public prosecutor and a speedy trial. The demand for compensation under the SC/ST Act is also a timely reminder of the need for the state to take responsibility for addressing caste-based harassment and discrimination.

As this investigation unfolds, it is essential that the spotlight remains on the systemic failures within India’s elite institutions. Students like Sahil Wakode are driven to take their own lives due to unbearable pressure from living with casteist remarks and harassment, underscoring the need for radical change.

A Culture of Silence and Complicity

The silence of many faculty members and administrators in the face of these allegations speaks volumes about the culture of complicity that exists within India’s elite institutions. Professor Doolla was allowed to continue in his position as Dean of Student Affairs despite these allegations, raising serious questions about accountability among those in power.

A Legacy of Silence and Inaction

The legacy of silence and inaction in addressing caste-based harassment and discrimination is a long one, stretching back decades. This incident highlights the need for fundamental transformation in how India’s elite institutions address issues of social justice and equality.

The Road Ahead

As this investigation unfolds, it is essential that the state takes concrete steps to address systemic failures within India’s elite institutions. This includes providing support to families who have lost loved ones under similar circumstances, ensuring those responsible are held accountable, and implementing policies that promote inclusivity and social justice.

The case of Sahil Wakode is a stark reminder of the dark shadow of casteism that exists within India’s elite institutions. It is up to us as a society to learn from this tragedy and take concrete steps towards creating a more just and equal world for all.