📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
Education
JNU sets up committee to examine ST PhD seat allocation after only 38 of 711 seats filled
✍️ Amar Ujala · Delhi
🗓 03 Nov 2026, 02:31 AM
👁 17
The university has formed a committee to investigate the allocation of Scheduled Tribe seats in its PhD programmes after data showed only 38 out of 711 seats were filled by ST candidates, prompting SC Commission attention.
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) announced the creation of a fact‑finding committee to look into allegations of under‑representation of Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates in its doctoral programmes. The move follows complaints lodged by student organisations that only 38 out of 711 PhD seats earmarked for ST candidates have been filled, a figure that appears to breach the university’s reservation policy.
The committee, comprising senior faculty members and administrative officials, has been tasked with verifying the admission data, identifying procedural lapses and recommending corrective measures. It will also coordinate with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (SC) which has taken cognizance of the issue.
JNU officials said the inquiry aims to ensure compliance with constitutional reservation norms and to restore confidence among marginalized student groups. The university has pledged to submit its findings to the SC Commission and to the university senate within a stipulated timeframe.
Student leaders welcomed the step but urged swift action, warning that prolonged delays could exacerbate feelings of exclusion among tribal scholars. The university has not yet disclosed the timeline for the committee’s report.
The committee, comprising senior faculty members and administrative officials, has been tasked with verifying the admission data, identifying procedural lapses and recommending corrective measures. It will also coordinate with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (SC) which has taken cognizance of the issue.
JNU officials said the inquiry aims to ensure compliance with constitutional reservation norms and to restore confidence among marginalized student groups. The university has pledged to submit its findings to the SC Commission and to the university senate within a stipulated timeframe.
Student leaders welcomed the step but urged swift action, warning that prolonged delays could exacerbate feelings of exclusion among tribal scholars. The university has not yet disclosed the timeline for the committee’s report.