India Shocked: Bengaluru Unsafe for SC/STs? The Dark Side of the Silicon Valley

A Stark Reality: High Incidence of Atrocities

Despite its global stature, Bengaluru ranks alarmingly high in caste-based atrocities. This statistic is not just a number but a reflection of the systemic issues plaguing the city's institutions and workplaces.

Institutional Failures: Education and Employment

Educational institutions, which are expected to be sanctuaries of learning and equality, have not been immune to caste-based discrimination. In December 2024, an inquiry at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B) revealed evidence of caste-based harassment faced by a Dalit professor. The professor reported being subjected to humiliation and exclusion by senior officials, prompting the Karnataka Department of Social Welfare to call for action against six senior officials, including the institute’s director.

Similarly, at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), an associate professor filed an FIR under the SC/ST Act against Infosys co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan and 17 faculty members, alleging caste-based discrimination and harassment.

These incidents underscore a disturbing trend where prestigious institutions, which should champion diversity and inclusion, are instead breeding grounds for caste-based biases and discrimination.

Government's Response: Inadequate and Reactive

The Karnataka government's response to these issues has been criticized as reactive and insufficient. While the establishment of dedicated police stations to handle SC/ST atrocity cases is a step in the right direction, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen. Experts argue that mere institutional mechanisms are not enough; there needs to be a cultural shift towards genuine inclusivity and respect for diversity.

Furthermore, the state's handling of caste-based surveys has been controversial. In July 2025, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) suspended a Revenue Collector after CCTV footage revealed enumerators pasting QR-coded stickers on Scheduled Caste households without proper verification. This incident highlights the lack of sensitivity and awareness among officials when dealing with caste-related matters.

Social Stigma and Public Sentiment

Beyond institutional failures, the social stigma attached to SC/ST communities remains pervasive. A study by the Karnataka internal quota panel found that 75% of Scheduled Castes still face untouchability, with varying degrees of discrimination. This social ostracization manifests in everyday interactions, from public spaces to workplaces, perpetuating a cycle of marginalization.

The public's response to caste-based issues often reflects a lack of awareness and empathy. For instance, during the caste census drive in Bengaluru, many non-SC residents refused to cooperate or behaved abusively toward survey staff. Such reactions indicate a deep-seated prejudice that continues to hinder efforts towards social equality.

The Way Forward: A Call for Comprehensive Reform

Addressing the caste-based discrimination in Bengaluru requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Educational Reforms: Institutions must implement anti-discrimination policies and conduct regular sensitization programs to foster an inclusive environment.

2. Stronger Legal Framework: While the establishment of dedicated police stations is a positive step, there needs to be a robust legal framework that ensures swift and fair justice for victims of caste-based atrocities.

3. Public Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives aimed at educating the public about the detrimental effects of caste-based discrimination can help in changing societal attitudes.

4. Community Engagement: Involving SC/ST communities in decision-making processes and policy formulations can ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.

In conclusion, while Bengaluru continues to shine as a hub of technological innovation, it must not overlook the pressing issues of caste-based discrimination that tarnish its social fabric. True progress lies in creating an environment where every individual, regardless of their caste, feels safe, respected, and valued. Only then can Bengaluru truly claim to be a city of equal opportunities for all.