Pune: The Mumbai High Court has directed the state government to investigate allegations of casteism, bullying, favoritism, sexual harassment, and ragging at Pune's ILS Law College.
The directive follows a letter written by students to Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay, highlighting these serious concerns. In response, the Registrar (Judicial) of the High Court has instructed the state's higher education directorate to take the complaints seriously and provide a prompt report on the actions taken.
Students, frustrated by the lack of response from the college administration, turned to Chief Justice Upadhyay with their grievances. The letter, endorsed by over 118 current and former students, details their unsuccessful attempts to seek help from senior administrative officials, prompting them to seek judicial intervention as a last resort.
ILS Law College is affiliated with Savitribai Phule Pune University, leading the students to appeal to the Vice-Chancellor. However, they claim that the university administration remained indifferent, failing to take any action, thus necessitating the escalation to the High Court.
The students' letter alleges that the college administration favors appointing Brahmin students to various institutional roles, increasing their likelihood of selection due to their surname.
Additionally, the letter cites multiple instances of bullying and ragging, including a case where 15 female students complained about being stalked and threatened by a male student, which the college administration allegedly ignored.
The letter also accuses professors of body-shaming former students and transgender individuals and criticizing their attire in front of other students and staff.
The students have demanded the formation of an independent inquiry committee to investigate these allegations. They also call for inclusive policies ensuring representation from all castes and religions among the student body.
The High Court's intervention seeks to ensure a thorough investigation into these serious allegations, with a focus on addressing the students' concerns and implementing necessary reforms at ILS Law College.