Rohith Vemula’s suicide not due to Dalit vs non-Dalit confrontation, says Smriti Irani

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Jan 20, 2016: Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani today refused to label the Hyderabad University student Rohith Vemnula’s suicide case as a Dalit vs non-Dalit confrontation.

 

Talking to reporters in New Delhi, Irani said facts have been misinterpreted in the case and that attempts were being made to polarise the Hyderabad University campus and facts were being presented in a wrong way.


"In the aftermath of a young life cut short, I express my grief over death of Rohith. A group of students allegedly attacked another student, we have ascertained that this is not a Dalit vs non-Dalit confrontation. There is an attempt to ignite passion and politicise the issue. There is a malicious bid to portray the case as a caste struggle," Irani said.

Responding to a question regarding the involvement of Labour and Employment Minister Bandaru Dattatreya in the case, the HRD minister said," Bandaru Dattatreya is not the only MP who has raised concerns over the Hyderabad University issue. I have a letter also by the Congress MP Hanumantha Rao written in 2014 to the ministry."

On leaders across making a beeline at the Hyderabad University, she said, "Political parties who are visiting the university might have their political compulsions.

Highlights of Smriti Irani’s press conference:

   
I repeat this is not a Dalit vs non-Dalit issue. Passions have been ignited over wrong and misconstrued information.
   
I will not indulge in political attacks and counter attacks. I will only speak on facts. This is a tragic instance where we have lost a student.
   
Warden of hostel who asked students to stop using hostel was from Dalit community.
   
High Court did not accept suspended students’ appeal to access the hostel.
   
Executive council took "lenient view" after students were found guilty of assault.
   
Executive Council members that decided punishment are nominees of previous government, not this government.
   
Bandaru Dattatreya is not the only MP who has raised concerns over the Hyderabad University issue.
   
Suicide note does not mention any university official or national political organisation or any MP.
   
August clash between Ambedkar Students Association and another student  was not Dalit vs non-Dalit confrontation.
   
As a mother and Human Resource and Development minister, I have conveyed my condolences to his family.
    

 Courtesy: Indiatoday