In response to concerns raised in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Abbaiah Narayanaswamy, highlighted the tragic toll of over 35,000 student suicides between 2019 and 2021 in India. The National Crime Records Bureau data underscored an alarming rise from 10,335 in 2019 to 13,089 in 2021.
Expressing grave concern, Narayanaswamy acknowledged the absence of specific data on SC/ST students’ suicides due to social discrimination but outlined initiatives. These include the establishment of counselling cells, SC/ST students’ cells, equal opportunity cells, and grievance committees in educational institutions nationwide.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to combat social discrimination through the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, and the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. These laws aim to prevent atrocities and ensure justice for SC/ST members, including students.
The ministry remains dedicated to strengthening preventive measures and fostering inclusive, discrimination-free learning environments for students across the country.
