Thread by @PreethiLN

In case of a caste based discrimination and harassment in Premier educational institutions, often the argument advanced against is that the victim is not able to cope up with the work load, that he/she really do not deserve to be in such institutions (1/n)

and only because of reservation he/she entered these institutes of higher learning. These arguments are advanced in order to make the victim feel inferior about himself/herself. (2/n)

Having gone through a lot of it myself, here are a few things I had adopted back in the day. (3/n)

1. I informed every single thing to my parents almost everyday. They understood the pattern of caste discrimination I was facing. (4/n)

While I totally understand that speaking to parents may not be an option to many, it’s important to speak to someone, a close friend, a confidant, a sibling, anyone you trust. But do not keep it to yourself. (5/n)

2. Maintain a diary. Make it a point to note things everyday. I also used to send emails to my parents when I couldn’t speak to them. Law only demands evidences. These things will help you in case there is any problem. (6/n)

3. Collect evidences of the way in which you have been discriminated. Deliberately failed or given less marks, collect your answer papers, get the key answers. If possible get it evaluated independently to see where you actually stand. (7/n)

4. They will make you question every belief, every relation, everything you hold dear and your own worth. They will make every effort to discourage you in every manner. (8/n)

Find your own light. If they refuse to help you understand a concept, doesn’t matter, do your own reading. It’ll make you strong intellectually trust me. (9/n)

Do not worry if your fellow mates from the community do not understand you. There will be a lot who will question your stand. Don’t waste your time in making others see reason, they most probably will not see it. (10/n)

Concentrate on why you are in that institution in the first place. Your first goal should be to get that degree on time with your batch. As easy as it sounds, in Premier institutions teaching professional courses, they are the hardest! (11/n)

6. Have a hobby. Anything apart from academics, music, art, dance, photography anything that helps you de-stress and make sure you devote time for that. Being creative will make you think creatively. You yourself will explore ways to battle your discrimination. (12/n)

7. Take good care of your health, both mental and physical. (13/n)

8. The oppressor will always be a few steps ahead of the victim. There might be circumstances which might tempt you to loose patience. (14/n)

They want you to do it. But you have to exercise extreme amount of caution. One negative remark can have the capacity to question all your claims! So be patient. (15/n)

9. Last and the most important. Know who you are and your history. If you have no clue of why you are facing these things, you need to know, not all people belonging to SCs and STs face caste discrimination in premier institutions. (16/n)

If you are facing it, know that you are meritorious and it is your merit that is a threat to the vested interests. Make yourself strong mentally. Read Ambedkar. Know his life and struggles.If he could do it a 100 years ago with very limited resources, we certainly can now!(17/n)

Always remember him when any negative thought crosses your mind. Our sufferings are nothing before what he went through so we can have a dignified life. Don’t let him down. (18/n)

Stay strong. Push your limits. You can do it! You can fight it. Have a firm conviction that no matter what, you can face it. There is always a way! (19/n)