Students and alumni of ILS Law College in Pune have taken a bold step by addressing concerns of caste discrimination, sexual harassment, and administrative inaction through a letter to the Bombay High Court. More than 110 individuals have come forward, shedding light on various issues plaguing the institution. The letter highlights instances of institutional casteism, sexual harassment, ragging, and hooliganism within the college premises. Shockingly, students have been denied the opportunity to organize a Phule Ambedkar memorial lecture for three consecutive years. Allegations of favoritism among faculty members, especially in appointments to significant bodies like the Moot Court Society or the Anti-Ragging Committee, have surfaced.Voices within studentsThe students revealed that a Muslim peer encountered Islamophobic comments, and when this was addressed, a professor issued threats of legal consequences. The student also highlighted instances of faculty bias resulting in the appointment of Brahmin students to influential roles. The demands outlined in the letter are deemed essential for establishing a respectful atmosphere for every student.Call for anonymity!Fearing backlash, the signatories have requested anonymity from the court. Their demands include the implementation of a diversity and inclusion policy to ensure fair representation of marginalized groups within the college community.Unaddressed cases of sexual harassmentThe letter also addressed cases of sexual harassment where action has not been taken. Despite complaints, incidents like stalking and molestation have gone unresolved, raising serious concerns about the colleges commitment to student safety.While the allegations paint a grim picture, the officiating principal of ILS Law College, Deepa Paturkar, has refuted them as false and baseless. Paturkar claims to possess evidence to support her stance, dismissing the allegations as attempts to tarnish the colleges reputation.Demanding changeThe students demands are straightforward yet significant. They call for the establishment of an independent inquiry committee, the implementation of a diversity and inclusion policy, the repeal of the sexist dress code, sensitization programs, and the formation of a student body for effective representation.
