Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday accused the Centre of infringing on the reservation rights of teachers in central universities, asserting that the government’s slogan “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” undermines the struggle for social justice. He emphasized that the promise of inclusive development is hollow when the rights of marginalized groups are being ignored.

During his remarks, Kharge cited an RTI query revealing that of the 18,940 sanctioned posts across 46 central universities, a staggering 27 percent of teaching positions remain unfilled. He pointed out that more than 38 percent of the reserved seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) are vacant. Specifically, he noted that 32.1 percent of positions for SCs, 40.3 percent for STs, and 41.8 percent for OBCs are not filled. Furthermore, he highlighted that 55 percent of professor-level positions and 71 percent of teaching posts for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) also remain vacant, along with over 47 percent of the 35,640 non-teaching positions.

In his criticism, Kharge stated, “Those stripping teachers of their reservation rights are lecturing others on public welfare,” seemingly referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent comments directed at Congress regarding its electoral promises. He argued that the Modi government’s actions contradict its own rhetoric, claiming that their slogan mocks the ongoing fight for social justice by neglecting the very needs of disadvantaged communities.

Kharge urged for immediate action to fill the vacant positions, asserting that a failure to do so would perpetuate inequality within the education system. He called on the government to uphold its commitments to social justice and equitable opportunities for all, particularly in the education sector, which serves as a foundation for societal progress. By addressing these vacancies, he argued, the government can take meaningful steps towards ensuring that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, receive quality education and support.

In conclusion, Kharge emphasized that the Congress party will continue to advocate for the rights of marginalized groups and hold the government accountable for its promises of social justice and inclusive development. He pledged that the party will fight tirelessly for policies that truly reflect the principles of equality and fairness, asserting that the true measure of progress lies in uplifting the most disadvantaged members of society.

Source: PTI

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