The Fraternity Movement has welcomed the United Democratic Front promise to implement the Rohith Vemula Act in Kerala, aimed at addressing caste discrimination in educational institutions. The group also urged leaders to include Islamophobia within the scope of the proposed law.
The announcement forms part of the UDF manifesto for the ongoing Kerala Assembly elections. The proposal aligns with the national Congress position on introducing legislation to tackle caste-based discrimination on campuses.
Fraternity Movement leaders said the demand for such a law has remained central to their advocacy. Kerala state president Naeem Gafoor stated that the organisation has consistently raised concerns over caste and race-based discrimination, especially in light of recent regulatory changes affecting higher education.
He said the group has engaged with political leaders and representatives of marginalised communities to highlight the issue. He added that the UDF’s commitment reflects recognition of sustained efforts by student and youth organisations.
The Rohith Vemula Act draws its name from the 2016 death of a PhD scholar at Hyderabad Central University. The proposed law aims to address such discrimination through legal safeguards.
The Fraternity Movement called for a broader framework that includes protection against religious bias, including Islamophobia, within the proposed legislation.