Infosys Co-Founder Kris Gopalakrishnan and IISc Leaders Charged in Caste-Based Discrimination Case
A major legal development in Bengaluru has led to the booking of Kris Gopalakrishnan, co-founder of Infosys, and 17 other individuals under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The charges come in response to allegations from Sanna Durgappa, a former assistant professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), who claims he was wrongfully accused in a honey trap case due to caste discrimination.
Caste-Based Harassment and Honey Trap Allegations
Durgappa’s complaint focuses on caste-based harassment during his tenure at IISc’s Centre for Sustainable Technology. He alleges that the honey trap incident, which took place in 2014, was a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation and remove him from his position due to his caste background.
“This is not just a personal issue; it’s a systemic problem in academia,” Durgappa stated. “My dismissal was orchestrated because of who I am.”
Kris Gopalakrishnan’s Involvement and IISc’s Response
Kris Gopalakrishnan, who serves as a member of IISc’s Board of Trustees, is among those accused of contributing to the caste-based discrimination. Along with former IISc Director Balaram P, Gopalakrishnan is named in the case for failing to address the discrimination faced by Durgappa and for allegedly ignoring internal complaints about the situation.
This case has brought to light serious questions about how IISc handles caste-related issues and the responsibilities of those in leadership positions within the institution.
Legal Implications of the SC/ST Act
The charges filed under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act underscore the legal importance of addressing caste discrimination in India’s educational institutions. Legal experts suggest that if proven, the case could lead to changes in how caste discrimination is dealt with in academia, particularly in prestigious institutions like IISc.
“Legal action under the SC/ST Act could prompt reforms in how educational institutions approach caste discrimination,” said a legal expert.
Institutional Reforms at IISc: A Call for Change
With the case now in the public eye, IISc may face calls for structural reforms. If the allegations are proven true, it could lead to policy changes and improved safeguards for marginalized communities within the institution. The case is also expected to fuel broader conversations about the prevalence of caste discrimination in India’s educational institutions.