A Dalit student has staged a sit-in protest outside the gates of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), alleging that he was denied admission to the university’s PhD programme despite fulfilling all eligibility criteria. 

The protest, which drew attention from fellow students and local activists, underscores the persistent issue of caste-based bias in higher education institutions across India. The student claims he was arbitrarily denied entry to the final interview stage, which is a crucial component of BHU’s PhD admissions process. He further alleges that his Scheduled Caste (SC) status was a factor behind the denial.

The university administration has yet to officially respond to the protest or the allegations. However, the incident has reignited conversations about the systemic exclusion of Dalit students in academia, even within premier institutions.

Across India, Dalit students continue to face challenges in accessing higher education, despite constitutional protections and reservation policies aimed at promoting equity. Activists argue that subtle and institutionalised forms of caste discrimination continue to operate, often pushing marginalised students to the fringes of academic life.

The protesting student has vowed to continue his demonstration until BHU addresses his grievance and ensures transparency in the admission process. He has also demanded an official inquiry into the matter.

As the protest gains traction on social media and among student groups, it brings to the fore the urgent need for universities to ensure accountability, inclusiveness, and strict adherence to anti-discrimination policies. For many, this protest is not just about one student’s admission—it is symbolic of a larger struggle for dignity and equal opportunity within India’s educational framework.