
A Dalit student, whose hopes of joining the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dhanbad were dashed due to a missed admission deadline, has been given a second chance by the Supreme Court. The court ruled in favor of the student, directing the institution to admit him despite the technical lapse, citing the need for inclusivity and fairness in educational opportunities for marginalized communities.
The student, who missed the deadline due to personal difficulties, expressed immense relief and gratitude. “I thought my dream was over, but now my life is back on track,” he said in an emotional statement. This ruling has reignited conversations about the barriers that marginalized students face, even when they qualify for prestigious institutions.
Legal experts have lauded the judgment as a step towards ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of socio-economic background. Education activists have pointed out that while the IITs are known for their rigorous academic standards, more needs to be done to support disadvantaged students who may struggle with administrative hurdles. The court’s decision sets a precedent for future cases, reinforcing the importance of fairness and social justice in India’s education system.