Pune: OBC and SBC Students Unite For Hunger Strike, Demand Equal Research Opportunities

Varad Bhatkhande

Pune, 2nd January 2024: The Mahajyoti Researcher Student Action Committee, comprising students from Denotified Tribes (DNTs) and Nomadic Tribes (VJNT), Other Backward Class (OBC), and Special Backward Class (SBC) communities, has launched a hunger strike to push for justice regarding the extra scholarship entitlements of OBC and SBC students. The committee has outlined a series of demands aimed at ensuring fair opportunities for eligible research students.

Key Demands:

1. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Research Fellowship (MJPRF): The committee is calling for the immediate announcement of the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Research Fellowship for the year 2023, ensuring the consideration of all eligible research students who applied based on the previous year’s criteria.

2. Fellowship Payment: The committee insists that fellowship payments commence from the date of PhD registration, providing continuous financial support throughout the students’ research journey.

3. Cancellation of Screening Examination: Advocating for the cancellation of the screening examination as per the guidelines of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Research and Training Institute (BARTI), the committee asserts that research fellowships for Ph.D. 2023 applicants should be awarded based on eligibility criteria without the imposition of additional examinations.

4. Exemption of Admission and Registration Fees: The committee urges the exemption of admission and registration fees for Ph.D. 2023 applicants meet the eligibility criteria, thereby alleviating financial burdens on students.

5. Cancellation of CET Exam: Demanding the cancellation of the Common Entrance Test (CET) scheduled for January 10, 2024, the committee argues that such examinations pose unnecessary obstacles for aspiring students.

Commencing on January 2, 2024, the hunger strike has brought together students from OBC, VJNT, and SBC communities, along with parents, Mahajyoti Research Students Action Committee members, and supportive organizations, associations, and individuals. The protest is unfolding at Vidhan Bhavan, Pune, symbolizing the students’ unwavering commitment to their cause.

The Mahajyoti Researcher Student Action Committee stresses the urgency of addressing these demands to ensure equal opportunities and support for research students from marginalized communities, promoting a more inclusive and just academic environment.