Radhika Vemula Calls for Rohith Vemula Law to Fight Caste Discrimination
Radhika Vemula spoke forcefully at an event marking the tenth death anniversary of her son, Rohith Vemula. She demanded the creation of a new law named after him. This proposed Rohith Vemula law would act as a powerful antidote to systemic caste-based discrimination. It aims to end harassment in both public and private educational institutions across India.
A Mother's Plea on a Somber Anniversary
The event, titled '10 Years of Justice Denied: Rohith Shahadath Din 2026', was held in Hyderabad. Rohith Vemula, a University of Hyderabad PhD scholar, died by suicide on the campus in 2016. His death triggered a massive national outcry. People protested against what they saw as institutionalised casteism within educational systems.
Radhika Vemula delivered a passionate address to the audience. She drew a stark comparison for the crowd. She likened the deep-rooted problem of caste discrimination to a "deadly covid virus". She then stated the proposed law would function like a vital vaccine. This vaccine, she argued, would finally put an end to the pervasive discrimination.
"Do not fear. Take courage," she told those gathered. "There will be an end to this oppression. The law is already happening in Karnataka, and it will soon happen in Telangana. You must study, stand strong, and refuse to slip into the despair or frustration of a rigged system." Her words aimed to inspire hope and continued resistance.
Political Voices Join the Demand for Justice
Congress MLA from Vadgam, Gujarat, Jignesh Mevani, also addressed the gathering. He launched a scathing attack against the Union government. Mevani described the forceful exclusion of marginalised groups from education as a "pogrom". He claimed the mass closure of government schools was a calculated move. This move, he alleged, strips oppressed communities of their primary path to becoming civil servants and future leaders.
Mevani made a specific demand regarding the unresolved case. He insisted the probe into Rohith Vemula's death must be reopened immediately. Furthermore, he demanded the investigation be handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). He proposed that the activists and the victims' families themselves should suggest the investigating officers for this new probe.
"If the government is clear in its intent, let it ensure a free and fair probe. If the investigation falters, I am ready to lead a protest against my own party," Mevani declared, showing his personal commitment to the issue. He also announced a legislative plan. He said he would table a private member bill in the next Gujarat assembly session. This bill would seek to eradicate caste-based discrimination in all educational institutions within the state.
Criticism of Delays and Judicial Apathy
Senior advocate V Raghunath provided a critical legal perspective at the event. He pointed out a significant delay. While the Congress party had promised to enact the Rohith Vemula law immediately, two full years had passed with zero progress. Raghunath emphasized a fundamental truth about rights. He stated that rights are never granted by "benevolent rulers". Instead, he argued, they are seized through relentless and ongoing struggle by the people.
Raghunath also highlighted a major obstacle in the pursuit of justice. He identified judicial apathy as a primary reason why justice remains out of reach for many. "Courts are hostile. There is no sensitization," the advocate alleged bluntly. His comments pointed to a systemic failure within the legal framework to address caste-based grievances effectively.
The event in Hyderabad served as a powerful reminder. A decade after a tragic death, the fight against caste discrimination in education continues with undiminished urgency. The calls for a specific law, a fresh investigation, and systemic change grow louder, uniting a mother's grief with broader political and legal activism.
