NIT Silchar Assistant Professor Suspended Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Silchar, Assam – The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Silchar has suspended Dr. D. Koteswara Raju, an assistant professor in the Electrical Engineering department, following allegations of molestation made by a first-year female student. The incident has triggered widespread outrage among students, leading to protests and demands for strict action.

Incident Details

According to reports, the alleged incident took place in Dr. Raju’s office on Thursday evening. The student accused him of making inappropriate physical advances, prompting her to report the matter to the administration. The authorities responded swiftly, convening an emergency meeting and announcing Dr. Raju’s suspension around 3:00 AM today.

Student Protests and Administrative Action

Following the allegations, students gathered on campus, demanding immediate action against the accused professor. Protesters emphasized that such behavior should not be tolerated in an academic institution and called for a safer environment for students, particularly female students.

In response, the NIT Silchar administration took swift action by suspending Dr. Raju and referring the case to the Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) for a formal investigation. The committee has begun its inquiry, and further action will be determined based on its findings.

Past Allegations Against Dr. Raju

This is not the first time Dr. Raju has faced accusations of misconduct. Sources indicate that a similar complaint was filed against him in 2021, raising concerns about repeated incidents and the effectiveness of previous disciplinary measures. Students have expressed their frustration, stating that stronger actions should have been taken earlier to prevent a recurrence.

Legal Action and Police Involvement

Although the NIT Silchar authorities have informed the Assam Police about the incident, no formal complaint has been registered yet. However, discussions between the administration and law enforcement officials are ongoing. If a complaint is officially lodged, further legal action may be initiated.

Ensuring a Safe Campus Environment

The incident has sparked serious discussions about the safety of students on campus. Many are calling for stricter policies, more transparency in handling such cases, and better mechanisms to prevent sexual harassment. The outcome of the ICC investigation will be crucial in determining the next steps and ensuring justice for the victim.

As the NIT Silchar community awaits the findings of the inquiry, students and faculty members stress the importance of maintaining a respectful and secure academic environment. The case serves as a wake-up call for institutions to enforce strict measures against sexual harassment and safeguard students from such incidents in the future.

For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Barak Outlet.

About The Author