The Supreme Court of India has established a special task force to address rising student suicides in educational institutions, particularly linked to issues like ragging and harassment. Led by former Supreme Court judge S Ravindra Bhat, the task force comprises top officials and must submit a report within four months to identify causes and preventative measures.
Madras: The Madras High Court ruled that no caste can claim ownership of a temple or administer it based on caste identity. The Court clarified that such a practice is not a protected religious right under the Indian Constitution. Justice Bharatha Chakravarthy dismissed a plea seeking separate administration of a temple based on caste identity.
The Supreme Court emphasized that the University Grants Commission (UGC) needs more authority to effectively address caste discrimination in colleges. The case, originally filed in 2019, sought enforcement of fundamental rights against caste-based bias. The court highlighted the need for stronger measures to curb such discrimination in educational institutions.
The Supreme Court requested the Centre’s response to a petition challenging the use of derogatory caste names in official certificates. The petition argues these terms violate dignity and equality principles, perpetuating stigma against Scheduled Castes. The petitioners seek to replace offensive terms with less discriminatory alternatives in official documents.
The Supreme Court’s ruling on October 3 addressed caste discrimination in Indian prisons, asserting that Article 21 extends the right to life and personal liberty, including equality regardless of caste. The Court condemned systemic discrimination, called for reforms, and initiated oversight to ensure compliance with constitutional rights among inmates.
The Chief Justice of India criticized the Centre’s 2023 Model Law on Prisons for omitting caste-based discrimination prohibitions. He ruled that inequality in prisons is unconstitutional, emphasizing equal treatment for all inmates. The judgment highlighted the need for reforms, rejecting caste-based classifications that hinder rehabilitation and violate constitutional rights.
The Justice K Chandru Committee proposed banning ‘Tilak’ and colored wristbands in Tamil Nadu’s educational institutions to foster a secular and inclusive environment. The committee aims to discourage discrimination and promote unity among students of diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the report suggests measures to combat caste-based discrimination and violence, emphasizing the importance of upholding social justice and inclusion.
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