Caste-Based Discrimination Academic Harassment and Professional Suppression

Respected Sir/Madam, I am writing to seek legal advice and guidance regarding a series of incidents involving alleged caste-based discrimination, gender harassment, academic suppression, professional isolation, retaliation, and mental harassment that I experienced during my PhD tenure at Yenepoya University, particularly at the Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine (CSBMM). Over the course of my PhD, I faced repeated obstacles affecting both my academic progress and mental well-being. These included denial of laboratory access, restriction from conducting approved validation experiments, exclusion from academic meetings and discussions, denial of research resources and funding, obstruction in authorship recognition, and prolonged professional isolation within the department. I also belong to the Scheduled Tribe (ST) community, and I was informed by fellow scholars that caste-related remarks were allegedly made against me, resulting in social segregation and discouragement of colleagues from interacting or collaborating with me. I experienced differential treatment compared to junior researchers who were provided access to infrastructure, funding, and experimental support for similar work. In addition, I was subjected to unauthorized videography within academic premises by my supervisor without my consent. Instead of addressing my concerns through proper institutional mechanisms, allegations were allegedly raised against me in retaliation. Repeated defamatory statements regarding my academic background and previous fellowship discontinuation were also circulated, causing reputational and emotional harm. Despite approaching institutional authorities and subsequently submitting a formal complaint to the Karnataka Women’s Commission approximately three months ago, I have not yet received any meaningful response, inquiry update, or relief. The prolonged delay has further affected my academic progress, emotional health, and professional future. I am therefore seeking legal guidance regarding: 1. Available legal remedies concerning caste-based discrimination and workplace harassment within academic institutions. 2. Protection against retaliation, intimidation, and reputational harm. 3. Legal aspects concerning unauthorized videography and privacy violation. 4. Academic rights relating to denial of research access, authorship disputes, and obstruction of PhD progress. 5. Appropriate legal forums or commissions that may provide effective redressal. 6. Steps for preserving evidence and documentation for further proceedings. I would be grateful for an opportunity to discuss my case confidentially and understand the legal options available to safeguard my academic rights, dignity, and future career. Thank you for your time and consideration. Yours sincerely, Nandini B C PhD Scholar Yenepoya University