Calls for Accountability at IIM Bangalore Over Allegations of Caste-Based Atrocities

Bengaluru- A storm of allegations has erupted at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B) following accusations of caste-based atrocities and violations of constitutional rights against the institute's leadership.

The Board of Governors (BOG), led by Chairperson Devi Prasad Shetty, Director Rishikesha T Krishnan, and Dean (Faculty) Dinesh Kumar, are now under scrutiny after complaints of caste discriminations against Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities.

The investigation was initiated after the complaints against the officials gained traction, with allegations pointing towards their involvement in caste-based discrimination and harassment of SC and ST students and staff at the institute.

Scholars, academicians, and activists have come together to send a strong representation to the Board of Governors at IIM Bangalore, outlining five major demands: the resignation of key officials, protection for victims and witnesses, formation of SC/ST and OBC cells, implementation of caste sensitivity training, and adherence to reservation norms for safeguarding the dignity of marginalized communities.

Allegations Against IIM-B Leadership

The letter outlines specific accusations of caste-based atrocities and a failure to uphold the constitutional rights of SC and ST members within the institution. It claims that the very custodians of official documents and governance at IIM Bangalore are the individuals accused of these serious crimes, making it impossible for the investigation to proceed without bias.

The Bahujan activists argue that as long as Shetty, Krishnan, and Kumar remain in their positions of power, the investigation risks being compromised. They stress that witnesses could be influenced, and crucial documents might be tampered with.

Demands for Justice and Accountability

In their representation, the activists have placed five non-negotiable demands before the Board of Governors:

1. Immediate Resignation of BOG Chairperson: The letter demands that Devi Prasad Shetty step down from his role as the BOG Chairperson. This call is rooted in concerns over the principles of natural justice and potential conflicts of interest. Activists have gone further, urging Shetty to return his prestigious Padma Awards, given the seriousness of the allegations.

2. Removal of Director and Dean: The activists demand the removal of Rishikesha T Krishnan and Dinesh Kumar, who are accused of daily discrimination and harassment against SC and ST students and staff. This step, they argue, is necessary for ensuring a free and fair investigation.

3. Protection of Victims and Witnesses: As per the provisions of the Prevention of Atrocities (PoA) Act, the BOG is urged to take immediate measures to safeguard the victims, their dependents, and witnesses, ensuring they are provided with legal, medical, and security support.

4. Formation of SC/ST and OBC Cells: The letter calls for the establishment of dedicated cells for SC, ST, and OBC students and staff, headed by senior faculty members from these communities. This would help address long-standing issues of discrimination and ensure proper implementation of the Government of India's reservation norms.

5. Caste Sensitivity Training: Lastly, the activists have urged regular caste sensitivity training for all faculty and staff members, particularly those dealing directly with students, to prevent future instances of discrimination.

Genesis of the issue

Dr. Gopal Das, a Marketing Assistant Professor at IIM Bangalore, brought attention to systemic caste-based discrimination within the institution. He accused senior colleagues, including Director Rishikesha T Krishnan, of creating a hostile work environment by denying him fair promotion and access to resources, primarily due to his underprivileged SC background. This letter, highlighting these caste atrocities, marked the beginning of the ongoing probe, now led by the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE).

On May 15, 2024, the IIM professor wrote to P Mannivannan, Principal Secretary in the state social welfare department, asserting that he is facing harassment after the inquiry started into his complaint.

He also raised concerns about discrimination faced by SC/ST students at IIM Bangalore, noting the lack of a dedicated cell for safeguarding their welfare. Despite these allegations, IIM-B strongly denied the claims, asserting that the institution maintains a policy of zero tolerance toward discrimination.

National media outlets have recently reported rising concerns among students and staff from the SC and ST communities at IIM Bangalore.

The activists argue that the BOG has failed in its duty to protect the dignity and welfare of SC and ST members, despite their status as a public institution of national importance.

The letter sets a clear deadline of 24 September for the Board of Governors to implement the five demands. Failure to meet this deadline, the activists warn, will result in mass protests and the initiation of a global signature campaign aimed at holding the accused officials, as well as the BOG members, accountable under the law.

The letter concludes by calling upon well-wishers and activists to show solidarity with the oppressed communities by sending in their representations.