Systemic Injustice Leaves Bengal’s Marginalised Youth Behind

West Bengal, 4 May, 2025 - A woman in her 40s, once a hopeful student who passed her Class 10 exams at 18, has spent decades waiting in vain for government job opportunities or training programmes. Despite repeatedly reaching out to state officials and higher authorities via email, her appeals were met with silence.

As a member of the Scheduled Caste, Christian community, and a recognised minority, she has endured double marginalisation. Now, due to rigid age limits imposed by government schemes, she is no longer eligible to apply—an unjust outcome shaped by systemic neglect. Her story is not unique.

Across Bengal, countless youth are facing similar struggles. A combination of scarce employment opportunities, entrenched corruption, bureaucratic inefficiency, age restrictions, and poorly paid contractual positions has driven many to seek livelihoods outside the state. For those from minority backgrounds, the hurdles are even greater.

Despite constitutional recognition, not all minorities benefit equally. Many feel that welfare schemes are unevenly distributed, with Christians and other smaller communities often overlooked in favour of larger groups. This selective inclusion deepens a sense of exclusion among Bengal’s most vulnerable.

The state must confront these structural injustices and redefine its approach to inclusivity and opportunity. Until then, the question remains: when will Bengal’s marginalised finally be heard?

By Mr. Joseph R.A.