IIT Delhi conference on caste, race stokes controversy; institute pledges action

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has formed a fact-finding committee to investigate the matter related to the recent conference on “caste and race” held at the institute, after social media users flagged concerns.

IIT Delhi’s humanities department recently hosted a conference titled “Critical Philosophy of Caste and Race," wherein views on casteism and racism were shared, along with sessions on comparisons of Dalits and Palestinians.

Several students, academicians, and the general public have expressed concerns over the selection of speakers and the content of the conference. IIT Delhi has sought an explanation from the concerned faculty members regarding the conference.

A keynote lecture was delivered by global human rights advocate Paul Divakar, who is a Dalit activist, along with Divya Dwivedi from IIT Delhi (Chair), who spoke on the topic titled “Dalit Rights to Global CDWD: From Naming to Norms, From Norms to Justice.”

Another session was hosted by Aarushi Punia an independent researcher, who spoke on: “What’s common between Dalits and Palestinians?”

“Appropriate actions will be initiated in accordance with institutional protocols, based on the committee's findings. The Institute remains committed to national goals, academic integrity, and established institutional guidelines,” IIT Delhi posted on its official X account.

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IIT Delhi caste conference sparks online backlash

“Wow. IIT Delhi’s humanities department is going full woke. Invites radical activists to perpetrate single-sided view on caste. Sessions on comparisons of Dalits and Palestinians,” a user posted on X account.

Furthermore, social media users also questioned IIT Delhi authorities, highlighting the fact that no objections were made regarding the conference held before the institute drew criticism online.

“It’s ironical to know that you guys were not aware about speaker and content. Is this how IIT Delhi works. Let it remain the premium institute where brilliant minds study irrespective of caste and creed.don’t fall in politician trap and make it a caste battlefield.” another user posted on X.

IIT Delhi’s "Critical Philosophy of Caste and Race" conference was held between January 16-18 at the campus.

Another user questioned IIT Delhi authorities X and said: “It's strange to realize that you learn what is being organized on your own campus from others, and that what's being said at a conference is also not known to you! I wonder whether the people holding office at your institution are really fit for the job?”