The Karnataka government has prepared a draft bill named after Rohith Vemula. It aims to prevent discrimination against students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and minority communities in higher education institutions.
The draft titled, Karnataka Rohith Vemula (Prevention of Exclusion or Injustice), (Right to Education and Dignity) Bill, 2025, proposes strict measures.
It includes up to one year in jail and a fine of ₹10,000 for individuals found guilty of discrimination. It also holds the heads of educational institutions accountable when such cases arise.
The bill follows a recent letter from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Gandhi urged the state to enact a law to protect students from caste-based bias.
The bill's objective is clear. It seeks to protect students from injustice, exclusion, and discrimination in colleges and universities. It focuses on those from marginalised communities.
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Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister HK Patil confirmed the draft. He said it has been sent to the Chief Minister for approval. The government may introduce it in the next legislative session or bring it through an ordinance.
“This bill is about dignity and fairness,” Patil said. “Every student, regardless of caste, class, gender, or religion, deserves equal opportunity in education.”
The draft bans discriminatory practices in admissions and on campus. It allows students to lodge complaints. Those found guilty could face punishment. Institutions could lose government funding if they break the law.
Once passed, the law will apply across Karnataka. This includes 34 government universities, 16 deemed universities, and 10 private ones.
Patil said the bill was drafted carefully. Legal experts were consulted to ensure it aligns with the Constitution. “We want to build a system where no student is excluded,” he said. “This is about empowering every individual to learn without fear.”
Rahul Gandhi’s letter, dated 16 April, was a key moment. In it, he mentioned Rohith Vemula’s tragic death in 2016. Vemula, a PhD scholar at the University of Hyderabad, died by suicide. His death sparked nationwide protests and brought attention to caste discrimination in universities.
Gandhi also posted his letter on social media. He drew parallels with Dr BR Ambedkar’s experiences and called the situation “a national shame”.
Siddaramaiah responded on X (formerly Twitter). He confirmed the government's commitment to the law. “We will honour Rohith’s dream,” he said. “And the dreams of all those who deserve dignity.”
The Congress leader has urged other party-led states, including Telangana and Himachal Pradesh, to bring similar laws. Karnataka may now lead the way with the first such legislation in the country.
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