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 reported.
Shasi joined the university’s Department of Environmental Science in March 2024. She alleges that although she completed her coursework, her Doctoral Committee has not been convened and her annual progress report has remained pending for more than a year.
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 duties, including cleaning, clerical work, arranging laboratory equipment and organising old records.
She also claims she was denied a chair and a proper workspace. According to Maktoob Media, she alleged that her research guide, Arun Babu V, told her, “If there is no chair, stand in the corridor.”
Shasi further alleges that her research proposals were returned without proper academic review and that she was repeatedly asked to discontinue her PhD.
She has also alleged that caste-based remarks were made after she secured a fellowship and qualified the UGC-NET. She claims 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 claims have not been independently established.
University Orders Inquiry
Following her protests, the university announced a judicial inquiry into the allegations, Maktoob Media 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 the implementation of the Rohith Vemula Act, or similar legislation, in Kerala’s higher education system. She has also sought criminal action against officials whom she accuses of caste discrimination.
Shasi has said she will continue her indefinite hunger strike until her demands are addressed.
