Bengaluru University denies anti-dalit allegations

Bengaluru University has issued an official clarification denying allegations of anti-Dalit bias, following a letter of resignation submitted by several Dalit professors citing caste-based discrimination. In its response, the university stated that it upholds inclusive policies and has provided significant representation to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) faculty members.

According to the university, 63.5% of its current 126 teaching staff belong to SC/ST categories. Out of 30 key administrative positions such as Directors, Coordinators, and Nodal Officers, 22 are held by SC/ST faculty. Additionally, the university mentioned that out of 44 faculty members promoted to senior professor roles for 2024–25, 29 belong to SC/ST backgrounds.

The university clarified that appointments to statutory posts like Vice-Chancellor and Registrar are handled directly by the government, and the institution plays no role in those decisions. It expressed disappointment over the mischaracterization of systemic bias in such appointments. On the issue of backlog vacancies, the university claimed that 35 out of 55 posts identified by the Social Welfare Department have already been filled, and action is being taken to fill the remaining ones.

Furthermore, in response to the state’s shortage of permanent teaching staff, four faculty members were transferred to Bengaluru University with approval from the Governor. The administration reiterated its commitment to social equity and said it prioritizes representation for SC/ST faculty in recruitments where the university has direct control, firmly rejecting all claims of anti-Dalit policies.