Don't ask JEE rank, birthplace, catagory or crack objectional jokes, IIT-B warns students

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

IIT-Bombay has issued guildelines to stop discrimination based on caste among the students. As per a ToI report, this year, the institute have compiled content from various cells' posters and orientations related to anti-discrimination into one poster, which is being circulated to both new and existing students.

According to the guidelines, the institute deems it inappropriate to inquire about a fellow student's birth or admission category, as it may lead to conscious or subconscious bias. Similarly, asking about JEE ranks or GATE scores is also discouraged, as it could negatively impact the other student.

Furthermore, the institute encourages students to bond over common interests such as department, sports, music, movies, school, college, village, town, or hobbies. The guidelines strictly forbid exchanging or forwarding hateful, casteist messages or jokes, as well based on religion or sexual orientation, or engaging in harassment or bullying on platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, or e-mail.

The administration has warned students of severe consequences for any violations of these rules and emphasizes the importance of being polite and sensitive to others' feelings. The guidelines affirm that the institute implements the reservation policy under the Constitution diligently and strives to provide equal opportunities to all its students.

Students have welcomed the institute's initiatives to curb caste discrimination on the campus and hope that these measures will bring about positive change. Last year, a leaflet with certain guidelines was circulated, but the latest guidelines are more explicit in addressing the issue of caste discrimination and encouraging a more inclusive and respectful environment.