The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has stopped collecting caste category data from students on its placement portal, clarifying its stance amid an ongoing investigation by the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC). The probe was launched after a complaint alleged discriminatory practices during the job placement process.
According to IIT Bombay, the institute had previously gathered caste-related data for students seeking placements with public sector undertakings (PSUs) that required such information. However, since 2024, the placement cell has ceased requesting caste category data from students.
Key Highlights:
Complaint and Allegations:
The controversy arose when Dheeraj Singh, founder of the Global IIT Alumni Support Group, filed a complaint with the NCSC. Singh’s complaint claimed that IIT Bombay’s placement office had been engaging in discriminatory practices by making it mandatory for students from Scheduled Caste (SC) backgrounds to provide their caste category and category rank on the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) forms.
The complaint was based on concerns that such data collection could lead to bias or unfair treatment during the placement process.
In response to the complaint, the NCSC directed both IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi to submit an action taken report addressing these allegations.
IIT Bombay’s Response:
In its response to the NCSC, IIT Bombay clarified that while it previously collected caste category data upon request from PSUs, this practice was discontinued in 2024. The institute emphasized its commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased placement process for all students.
IIT Delhi’s Position:
IIT Delhi, which was also named in the complaint, firmly refuted the allegations of caste profiling. The institute stated that its placement cell had not engaged in any discriminatory practices and had always upheld an equal-opportunity approach in its placement process.
The decision by IIT Bombay to stop collecting caste category data for placements underscores the growing focus on creating an inclusive and unbiased environment for students. As India’s premier institutions face increasing scrutiny, ensuring fairness and transparency in placement processes will remain a key priority.
The NCSC’s investigation continues, and its findings will likely shape future practices in higher education institutions across the country.
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