IIMB faculty reaffirm commitment to diversity amid allegations of caste bias

Bengaluru: In the wake of recent allegations of caste discrimination against one of its professors, 38 faculty members of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) have released a statement, reaffirming their commitment to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion at the institute.

The statement expressed concern over the allegations, stating: "Recent news regarding allegations of bias and unfair treatment at IIMB are of significant concern and have cast doubts on the culture of diversity and inclusion at the institute. We earnestly and unequivocally reaffirm our belief in the culture of diversity and inclusion at the institute and everything the institute stands for.”

Highlighting the institute’s commitment to fairness and mutual respect, the statement added, “The pursuit of academic excellence at IIMB has been nurtured and enhanced through inclusivity, fairness, transparency, and mutual respect. Discrimination, whether based on community or gender, is something IIMB strives to eliminate through various institute-wide initiatives that reflect its commitment to inclusivity.”

The faculty underscored their belief in the IIMB’s legacy, stating that tarnishing the reputation of the institute goes against its history of nurturing talent and fostering curiosity. They emphasised the importance of workplaces that alleviate systemic inequalities rather than exacerbate them.

The faculty concluded by standing firmly behind IIMB’s policies and procedures, reiterating their commitment to creating an equitable work environment. They described the institute as an open-minded academic community built on dialogue and diversity.