Supreme Court Orders IIT To Admit Dalit Student; He Says Train Back On Track

Atul Kumar, an 18-year-old from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, was overjoyed after the Supreme Court intervened to secure his admission to IIT Dhanbad's electrical engineering course. Despite passing the challenging entrance exam, Atul faced financial hurdles as his father, a daily-wage labourer, couldn't pay the Rs 17,500 admission fee on time.

Atul's journey to secure his seat was arduous. He initially sought help from the National Commission for Scheduled Castes but was turned away. He then approached the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority since he had taken the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) in Jharkhand. They advised him to contact the Madras High Court because IIT Madras conducted the JEE this year.

Supreme Court's Intervention

The Madras High Court directed Atul to approach the Supreme Court, where he finally found relief. A bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud used its extraordinary powers under Article 142 to instruct IIT Dhanbad to admit Atul without disturbing any existing students by creating a supernumerary seat for him.

"I have been provided with the seat. I am very happy. The court said my seat could not be snatched away solely due to a financial problem. The train that had derailed is back on track now," Atul expressed joyfully after the court's decision.

Financial Struggles and Community Support

Atul's father earns Rs 450 daily, making it difficult for him to gather Rs 17,500 quickly. The petitioner's counsel highlighted this financial struggle in court. Villagers came together to help collect money for Atul's admission fee.

The Chief Justice remarked on Atul's situation: "He went to Jharkhand Legal Services Authority. Then he is (sent) to Chennai legal services and then to the high court. He is a Dalit boy; he is being made to run from pillar to post."

A Bright Future Ahead

With his seat secured, Atul looks forward to becoming an electrical engineer from IIT-Dhanbad. When asked about his future plans, he confidently stated his intention to work hard and achieve his dreams at IIT-Dhanbad.

The Chief Justice wished Atul well: "All the best. achha kariye!" This support from India's top court has given Atul hope and motivation for his academic journey ahead.