Ph.D. students in Tamil Nadu raise concerns over exploitation by academic guides

Ph.D. students in Tamil Nadu are increasingly voicing concerns about exploitation by their academic guides. Recent convocation ceremonies have become platforms for complaints, with students like F. Israel Inbaraj and A. Prakash presenting petitions to the Governor about mistreatment and financial demands. In response, the Tamil Nadu government has instructed universities to address these issues. A new online reporting system is being considered to help students report grievances against their guides, marking a shift in the handling of these complaints. The situation highlights a broader culture of exploitation in Indian academia, where students often face undue pressure and financial burdens. Reports of guides demanding money, gifts, and even personal favors from students have raised alarms about the integrity of the research process.