Speaking on the matter, Ramjas Principal Ajay Arora stated that the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), an independent body in higher education institutions that addresses sexual harassment complaints, has begun investigating the case. Arora explained, “The faculty member has been placed under teaching suspension for the next 4-6 weeks while the ICC conducts its investigation. After the report is submitted, the governing body will decide on the punishment.” Arora also confirmed that the professor has resigned from his position as Joint Dean of Student Welfare at Delhi University (DU).
Although suspended from teaching, the accused Professor has not been barred from entering the campus. Protestors have warned of strong action if the Professor is allowed campus access during the investigation. Principal Arora said, “If the situation becomes tense, we will issue a formal notice to restrict his entry.” The incident came to light in December when the student filed a formal complaint with the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
DUSU and ABVP Protest
However, due to the alleged inaction of the university administration, a six-hour sit-in protest led by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) took place on Wednesday. Protestors shut down the offices of the Dean and Joint Dean of Student Welfare, demanding immediate action. Clarifying the process, DU Registrar Dr. Vikas Gupta said, “The college has the autonomy to conduct the investigation and determine the punishment. The findings will then be sent to the Vice-Chancellor for approval to ensure due process is followed.”
The ICC, established under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, is currently investigating the matter. The committee comprises senior faculty members, non-faculty representatives, students, and a member from an NGO. The university administration has stressed that the investigation should proceed independently, free from external pressure.
