The Kerala government has halved its minority scholarship programs, citing financial constraints, a move that critics argue disproportionately affects underprivileged students and signals an “anti-minority” stance. The decision comes despite Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s repeated criticisms of the Union government for allegedly undermining minority rights.
An order issued on January 15 confirms that nine of the 11 scholarship schemes under the Department of Minority Affairs—including key programs like the Prof. Joseph Mundassery, Mother Teresa, and APJ Abdul Kalam scholarships—will face a 50% reduction in funding. While the government has allocated Rs 87.63 crore for minority scholarships in the 2024-25 financial year, only 2.69% of the funds have been disbursed, with just two months remaining in the fiscal year.
The Prof. Joseph Mundassery Scholarship, which supports high-achieving students from Muslim, Sikh, Jain, and Parsi communities—particularly those from below-poverty-line (BPL) families—will be significantly affected. The scholarship provides Rs 10,000 to students securing A+ in all SSLC subjects and Rs 15,000 to those scoring 80% in higher secondary or 75% in vocational courses. A reduction in funds could leave many deserving students without crucial financial assistance.
The APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarship, which grants Rs 6,000 to students admitted to government-approved institutions on merit, has also been slashed. This scholarship reserves 30% of funds for female students, making the budget cut particularly detrimental to young women from disadvantaged backgrounds who already face barriers in accessing higher education.
Similarly, the Mother Teresa Scholarship, which supports students from Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, and Parsi communities pursuing diploma courses in nursing and paramedical fields, has also been impacted.
Additionally, funding for scholarships supporting students studying abroad, civil service coaching, and UGC coaching fee reimbursements has been reduced, further limiting opportunities for marginalized students.
The decision has triggered widespread criticism, with opposition parties and student groups condemning the move. The Congress party accused the state government of following the BJP’s playbook, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “Like BJP governments, Kerala’s ‘CJP’ government too hits minority students hard by cutting their scholarships to half.”
Muslim Students Federation (MSF) state president P.K. Navas took to Facebook, calling the move part of a “dubious alliance” between the CPM and BJP that disregards the constitutional rights of minorities.
Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) state president Adv. Abdul Vahid warned of protests if the decision is not reversed. “This is a continuation of the Pinarayi government’s anti-minority approach. If the decision is not canceled, there will be demonstrations,” he stated.
Despite government claims that the reductions are part of broader financial adjustments, the targeted cuts in minority educational assistance raise concerns about policy priorities, social justice, and the long-term impact on students from marginalized communities.
