Karnataka Cabinet Approves 'Rohith Vemula Bill' Against Campus Discrimination

Safeguarding Dignity: The Anti-Discrimination Law for Higher Education

The Karnataka Cabinet has approved the Rohith Vemula (Prevention of Discrimination, Exclusion or Injustice) Bill, 2026. This legislation is designed to protect the rights of SC/ST students and ensure a safe, inclusive environment in higher educational institutions across the state.

Key Provisions

• Scope: Applies to all public, private, charitable, and deemed universities in Karnataka.

• Prohibited Acts: Lists 30 forms of discrimination, including denial of admission based on caste, financial harassment, and caste-based verbal abuse.

• Penalties: Severe punishments, including imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 lakh for institutions found guilty of failing to prevent discrimination.

• Grievance Redressal: Mandates the establishment of specialized enquiry committees and an appellate mechanism within institutions.

For TNPSC and Social Justice aspirants, this is a landmark legislation in 'Socio-Economic Development' and 'Educational Rights.'