Access to education: Historically, Dalits and other lower castes were denied access to education and were often relegated to menial jobs. Though the Indian Constitution guarantees equal access to education for all, the reality on the ground remains different. Many children from marginalized communities still face obstacles such as lack of proper infrastructure, discrimination by teachers and fellow students, and economic constraints that hinder their educational opportunities.

Discrimination within educational institutions: Even after gaining admission, students from marginalized communities may encounter discrimination within the school or college premises. This discrimination can take various forms, including verbal abuse, derogatory remarks, and social isolation, leading to a hostile environment for these students.

Unequal treatment: There have been cases where teachers and educational administrators have shown favoritism towards students from higher castes, providing them with more attention, resources, and opportunities. Conversely, students from marginalized backgrounds may receive less encouragement and support, affecting their academic performance and overall growth.

Disproportionate dropout rates: Students from marginalized communities often face a higher dropout rate due to several factors, including social and economic pressures, lack of quality education, and discrimination. This leads to perpetuating cycles of poverty and disadvantage.

Limited representation in higher education: While there have been positive developments in increasing the representation of SCs in higher education through affirmative action policies (reservation), some critics argue that this approach might not be adequate to address the underlying systemic issues and that there is a need for broader reforms.