Dynamite News DU: Ramjas professor, accused of sexual harassment, finally resigns
A professor at Delhi University's Ramjas College, who had been accused of sexual harassment, resigned on Wednesday (January 8, 2025). Read further on Dynamite News:
New Delhi: A professor at Delhi University's Ramjas College, who had been accused of sexual harassment, resigned on Wednesday (January 8, 2025) following protests by students on campus over the alleged inaction by the adminstration on the issue.
Resigned from the position of Joint Dean of Student Welfare
He has also resigned from his position as the Joint Dean of Student Welfare at Delhi University (DU) amidst escalating protests.
Ramjas Principal Ajay Arora
Speaking on the matter, Ramjas Principal Ajay Arora stated that the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), the independent body in higher education institutions which addresses complaints of sexual harassment, has begun an investigation into the matter.
"The faculty member has been placed under teaching suspension for the next 4 to 6 weeks while the ICC conducts its investigation. Once the report is submitted, the governing body will decide on the penalty," Arora said over the phone, that the professor has also resigned from the position of Joint Dean of Student Welfare at Delhi University (DU).
Though he has been suspended from teaching, Prof Dhaniram is not barred from entering the campus.
Protestors have warned
Protestors have warned of intensified action if Professor Dhaniram is allowed on campus during the investigation.
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"If the situation becomes tense, we will issue a formal notice barring his entry," Principal Arora added.
Lodged complaint with ICC
The incident came to light in December when the student lodged a formal complaint with the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
However, alleged inaction by the university administration prompted a six-hour sit-in protest on Wednesday led by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU).
Demanding immediate action
Protestors locked the offices of the Dean and Joint Dean of Student Welfare, demanding immediate action.
Dr Vikas Gupta, DU Registrar, further clarified the process, saying, "The college has the autonomy to investigate and determine the punishment. The findings will then be sent to the Vice-Chancellor for approval to ensure due process has been followed."
Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal Act, 2013
The ICC, established under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013, is currently probing the matter.
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The committee comprises senior faculty members, non-faculty representatives, students, and a member from a non-governmental organization.
Investigation must proceed independently
The university administration has emphasized that the investigation must proceed independently of external pressure.
Meanwhile, student groups have vowed to monitor the process closely to ensure accountability and justice for the victim.
AVBP goons thrashed protesters
On Wednesday, ABVP goons allegedly thrashed the protesters from SFI and AISA who were protesting against the professor demanding his resignation.
Even the Dean’s room was locked by the students.