JNU students allege professor offered marks for sexual favours; ICC launches probe
Incident became public after a student shared her ordeal on WhatApp group, following which many others recounted similar stories
At least 11 students of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) have accused a professor of sexual harassment and offering more marks for sexual favours, prompting the varsity’s internal complaints committee (ICC) to probe the allegations, reports quoting sources privy to the matter have said.
The students have been asked to record their statements before the ICC.
Allegations shared on WhatsApp chat
The incident reportedly came to light after one of the students shared her experience of sexual harassment during viva examinations in May, on a student-only WhatsApp group. Encouraged by her account, many other students shared similar encounters with the professor in the group.
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The students alleged that the professor made sexually explicit comments during the viva examination and suggested that the students could get more marks if they accepted his sexual advances.
According to an NDTV report, students have also alleged that the professor invited them to gatherings at his residence on campus, where he made sexual advances toward them. He has also been accused of making lewd and inappropriate comments during his classes.
Professor denies allegations
The issue has reportedly gained momentum after the university reopened following a 45-day semester break.
Senior students have levelled similar allegations against the professor following another complaint.
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The ICC has declined to comment on the issue, calling it an internal matter which is currently under investigation.
JNU Vice Chancellor, Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, when asked by the Times of India to comment on the allegations or the probe, said that he is not a member of the ICC.
The professor in question told TOI that he is not aware of any complaints and that the allegations against him were untrue.