Delhi High Court Upholds Action Against DU Professor in Sexual Harassment Case

Speedy Summary

• The delhi High Court has upheld the compulsory retirement of an assistant professor at Delhi University’s Bharati College over multiple allegations of sexual harassment.
• Allegations included inappropriate messages sent via Facebook chats and WhatsApp to both current and former students.
• Student protests in February 2018 brought the matter to public attention, demanding an inquiry into the professor’s conduct.
• An Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) investigation substantiated all charges against him through documentary and oral evidence in its August 28, 2018 report.
• The professor challenged his compulsory retirement order from December 2020 but failed as the Court deemed his arguments on procedural impropriety unsubstantiated.
• Justice Subramonium Prasad noted that such misconduct by teachers has a severe psychological impact on young students.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Delhi High Court’s judgment reflects India’s strict stance against workplace misconduct, especially under provisions outlined by the POSH Act and UGC regulations. Upholding disciplinary action based on institutional inquiries reinforces accountability within academia-a sector were trust between educators and students is paramount. This case highlights a systemic mechanism for addressing grievances while underlining societal expectations from mentors who shape student futures. It further serves as a message advocating institutional sensitivity toward allegations of sexual harassment, which can have long-term psychological repercussions for victims.

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