Are Hostel Conditions and Scholarship Delays Harming Marginalised Students?
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Synopsis
Rahul Gandhi's recent letter to PM Modi raises alarming concerns about the poor conditions of hostels and scholarship delays affecting marginalized students across India. He emphasizes the urgent need for government intervention to ensure equitable educational opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent need for better hostel conditions.
- Scholarship delays are impacting students.
- Comprehensive audits of facilities are necessary.
- Increased amounts for scholarships are crucial.
- Government intervention is essential for equity.
New Delhi, June 11 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, addressed a pressing issue in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting significant challenges that impede educational access for students hailing from marginalized communities.
He urged the government to take immediate action on two crucial matters affecting students from Dalit, Scheduled Tribes (ST), Extremely Backward Classes (EBC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and minority groups.
Gandhi emphasized that the living conditions in residential hostels designated for these students are in an unacceptable state.
"I implore you to address two urgent matters that obstruct educational opportunities for 90 percent of students from marginalized backgrounds. Firstly, the conditions in residential hostels for students from Dalit, ST, EBC, OBC, and minority communities are truly deplorable," he stated.
He recounted a recent visit to the Ambedkar Hostel in Darbhanga, Bihar, where students reported issues such as overcrowded accommodations, inadequate sanitation, and a lack of basic amenities.
"Students expressed their concerns about cramped quarters where 6-7 individuals are forced to share single rooms, along with unsanitary toilets, unsafe drinking water, insufficient mess facilities, and no access to libraries or the Internet," the letter detailed.
Gandhi also pointed out the inefficiencies plaguing the post-matric scholarship system, particularly its adverse effects on Dalit students in Bihar.
"Post-matric scholarships for students from marginalized groups are riddled with delays and shortcomings. For instance, in Bihar, the scholarship portal was inactive for three years, leaving no students with scholarships in 2021-22," he remarked.
He highlighted a troubling decline in the number of Dalit students receiving scholarships, dropping from 1.36 lakh in the financial year 2022-23 to merely 0.69 lakh in 2023-24.
"Students further lament that the scholarship amounts are shockingly low," he added.
While his observations were primarily based on Bihar, Gandhi clarified that these issues are widespread across the nation.
To resolve these pressing concerns, Gandhi urged the Prime Minister to conduct a thorough audit of all hostels for marginalized students to ensure they meet essential standards for infrastructure, sanitation, nutrition, and academic support.
He also called for prompt scholarship disbursements, increased scholarship amounts, and improved collaboration with state governments for effective execution.
Concluding the letter, Gandhi stated, "I trust you agree that India cannot advance unless our youth from marginalized communities progress. I eagerly await your positive response."
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge Gandhi's concerns regarding the educational barriers faced by marginalized communities. The issues he raises highlight systemic inadequacies that demand attention. The narrative surrounding educational access must prioritize inclusivity to foster a progressive society.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What issues did Rahul Gandhi raise in his letter?
Rahul Gandhi highlighted the deplorable conditions in hostels for marginalized students and the delays in disbursing post-matric scholarships.
What specific communities are affected?
The concerns primarily impact students from Dalit, Scheduled Tribes (ST), Extremely Backward Classes (EBC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and minority groups.
What did Gandhi suggest for improvement?
He called for a comprehensive audit of hostels, timely scholarship disbursal, and increased scholarship amounts.
Is this issue limited to Bihar?
While Gandhi's examples were drawn from Bihar, he clarified that these issues are prevalent across the entire country.
What was the response expected from the Prime Minister?
Gandhi expressed hope for a positive response that prioritizes progress for youth from marginalized communities.
