Rahul Gandhi Slams Delay in Scholarships for Marginalised Students in Letter to PM Modi

New Delhi, June 11, 2025

Rahul Gandhi Raises Alarm Over Delay in Scholarships for Marginalised Students

In a strongly worded letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has expressed serious concern over the persistent delay in scholarships for marginalised students. The letter, sent on Tuesday, draws attention to the hardships faced by students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) due to what he terms as “systemic negligence” by the central government.

The issue of delay in scholarships for marginalised students has been a recurring theme in public discourse, but Gandhi’s intervention marks a renewed political spotlight on the matter. His letter alleges that the funds meant for critical education support have been held back for months, forcing thousands of students to either drop out or face financial distress.

Letter Highlights Discrimination Behind Delay in Scholarships for Marginalised Students

Gandhi’s letter outlines how the delay in scholarships for marginalised students is not only a failure of policy execution but also a reflection of broader social inequalities. He questioned the government’s commitment to inclusive education and urged immediate disbursal of all pending scholarship funds.

“This delay is not just a bureaucratic issue—it is a direct attack on the dreams and aspirations of India’s poorest students,” wrote Gandhi. He also pointed out that while funds are quickly allocated for other central schemes, education assistance for vulnerable groups continues to be overlooked.

Students Across India Struggle Due to Delay in Scholarships for Marginalised Students

Several states have reported significant backlogs in disbursing funds under centrally sponsored scholarship schemes such as the Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST students and the National Fellowship for OBC candidates. Gandhi’s letter comes in the wake of growing unrest among student communities and educational institutions who have repeatedly flagged the delay in scholarships for marginalised students as a barrier to progress.

Students from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh have staged protests over the non-payment of dues. In some cases, institutions have refused to issue certificates or allow students to sit for exams due to unpaid tuition fees, further deepening the crisis.

Rahul Gandhi Demands Accountability for Delay in Scholarships for Marginalised Students

Rahul Gandhi has demanded that the Prime Minister take personal responsibility for resolving the delay in scholarships for marginalised students and set a deadline for disbursal. He also urged the formation of a parliamentary committee to review the performance of educational welfare schemes targeted at SC/ST/OBC communities.

He noted that any further delay could severely affect the academic future of lakhs of students, particularly those preparing for competitive exams or higher education. “This injustice must end,” Gandhi wrote, stressing that education is a fundamental right and not a privilege for a few.

Political Reactions to Delay in Scholarships for Marginalised Students

The letter has sparked reactions from various opposition parties and student organisations. Many leaders have echoed Gandhi’s concerns and criticized the government for what they call a “deliberate disregard” for marginalised communities.

The ruling BJP, however, has maintained that the funds are in the pipeline and blamed state-level implementation delays. A senior BJP spokesperson said, “We are committed to the welfare of all students, and the government is taking steps to ensure that there are no further delays.”

Despite the reassurance, the ground reality suggests otherwise. The delay in scholarships for marginalised students continues to disrupt educational journeys, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.

A Wake-Up Call: Fixing the Delay in Scholarships for Marginalised Students

As the issue gains national attention, education activists and policy analysts argue that the government must prioritize fixing the systemic issues behind the delay in scholarships for marginalised students. Many suggest streamlining the application process, using Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanisms effectively, and ensuring timely fund release as crucial steps forward.

The conversation initiated by Rahul Gandhi’s letter could mark a turning point—if followed by action. With the academic calendar advancing and fees mounting, students across India await not just promises, but real support.