Dalit PhD scholar begins hunger strike at Kerala university over discrimination, demands Rohith Act

Dalit PhD scholar Anagha Shasi has begun an indefinite hunger strike at Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University in Kerala after 22 days of protest over alleged caste and gender discrimination, harassment and denial of academic opportunities, Maktoob Media reported.

Shasi alleges that her PhD research has been stalled for more than a year. She joined the university's Department of Environmental Science in March 2024 and says that although she completed her coursework, her Doctoral Committee has not been convened and her annual progress report remains pending.

She has also raised concerns that the delay could affect her fellowship from the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment.

Allegations of caste discrimination

Shasi has alleged that she was assigned non-academic work, including cleaning, clerical tasks and arranging laboratory equipment and old records.

She also alleges that she was denied a chair and workspace. According to Maktoob, she said her guide, Arun Babu V, told her, "If there is no chair, stand in the corridor."

Shasi has further alleged that her research proposals were returned without proper academic review and that she was repeatedly asked to discontinue her PhD.

She claims caste-based remarks were made after she received a fellowship and qualified the UGC-NET. She also alleges that she was threatened with cancellation of her fellowship.

Shasi has said the prolonged dispute severely affected her mental health and that she attempted suicide. These remain allegations and have not been independently established.

University orders inquiry

Following the protests, the university announced a judicial inquiry into her allegations, Maktoob reported.

Kerala Higher Education Minister Roji M. John also spoke to Shasi through a video call and assured her that necessary steps would be taken.

Shasi is demanding implementation of the Rohith Vemula Act, or similar legislation, in Kerala's higher education system and criminal action against officials she accuses of caste discrimination.

She has said she will continue the hunger strike until her demands are addressed.