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The Supreme Court of India, exercising its extraordinary powers, has intervened to secure the admission of a Dalit student, Atul Kumar, to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dhanbad. Atul, an 18-year-old from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, had successfully cleared the highly competitive entrance exam for electrical engineering at IIT Dhanbad, but faced a significant hurdle – his family's inability to afford the Rs 17,500 admission fee.
Atul's father, a daily-wage laborer, struggled to make ends meet, and the hefty admission fee proved an insurmountable barrier. Despite Atul's academic success, his dream of studying at IIT Dhanbad seemed to slip away. He sought help from the National Commission for Scheduled Castes, but the panel was unable to assist. He also approached the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority, which directed him to the Madras High Court, as the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) had been conducted by IIT Madras. Finally, Atul reached the Supreme Court, where he received the relief he desperately needed.
The Chief Justice-led bench, recognizing the injustice of denying Atul his rightful place at IIT Dhanbad solely due to financial constraints, stated that such a talented student could not be allowed to be wasted. They highlighted the hardship Atul had endured, being forced to seek help from various authorities before finally reaching the Supreme Court. The petitioner's counsel emphasized the immense financial burden on Atul's family, with his father earning a meager Rs 450 per day. They explained how Atul had collected money from villagers, but still fell short of the required amount.
The Supreme Court, invoking its power under Article 142, instructed IIT Dhanbad to grant Atul admission in the same batch, creating a supernumerary seat for him. This ensured that no existing student's place would be jeopardized while accommodating Atul's rightful entry. The Chief Justice wished Atul good luck, urging him to excel in his studies. This landmark intervention by the Supreme Court is a testament to the importance of ensuring equal access to education for all, regardless of their socioeconomic background. It also reinforces the judiciary's commitment to upholding social justice and empowering marginalized communities.
Atul Kumar's case stands as a powerful reminder of the obstacles faced by underprivileged students aspiring to higher education in India. Despite systemic challenges, Atul's perseverance and the Supreme Court's decisive action offer hope for a brighter future where every student has the opportunity to pursue their dreams, irrespective of their financial circumstances. Atul's journey serves as an inspiration to countless others who face similar hurdles, reminding us of the vital role that education plays in fostering a more equitable and just society.
Source: "Train Back On Track": Dalit Student After Top Court Asks IIT To Admit Him