Hindu-American Think Tank Files Complaint Against Rutgers University Over Caste Discrimination Report

CasteFiles, a Hindu-American advocacy group, has filed a complaint against Rutgers University, alleging that a report on caste-based discrimination in higher education is based on unsubstantiated claims. The complaint highlights that the university's task force report lacks systematic data and relies on anecdotal evidence, affecting Indian-American students' rights.

A Hindu-American think tank has lodged a formal complaint against Rutgers University in New Jersey. This follows a report by the institution's task force alleging caste-based discrimination in the U.S. higher education system.

The report, titled 'Caste Based Discrimination in US Higher Education at Rutgers', has been criticized by the think tank for perpetuating an 'unscientific, unproven caste discrimination narrative' based on flimsy anecdotal evidence. CasteFiles, the advocacy group, filed the complaint citing a violation under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which guarantees an education free from harassment and discrimination.

Richa Gautam, founder of CasteFiles, questioned why Rutgers would issue such a report without substantial data, especially given its substantial Indian-origin student population. The think tank claims that Rutgers University has a recurring history of failing to protect students from discrimination and harassment, referencing multiple complaints and lawsuits.

(With inputs from agencies.)