Shock and Outrage: Ramanujan College Principal Suspended Amidst Harassment Claims, Declares Charges ‘Politically Motivated’
The principal of Ramanujan College, affiliated with Delhi University, has been suspended over allegations of harassment made by a faculty member. The principal has strongly denied these claims, characterizing them as “false, fabricated, politically motivated, and devoid of merit.” University officials did not provide immediate comment on the ongoing situation.
The allegations, reported on March 13, include serious accusations of harassment and misconduct. Following these claims, the principal was officially suspended on September 18. In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on September 13, he asserted that the complaint was part of a “coordinated attempt” by the faculty member and her colleagues to undermine his position. He also alleged that the complaint was retaliatory, stemming from a situation where his colleague’s promotion was denied due to incomplete documentation.
Sources within the university confirmed that a three-member committee was established to investigate the harassment allegations, and the principal’s suspension was executed based on the committee’s findings. The investigation report has been submitted to Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh, and the allegations will now be referred to the internal complaints committee, in accordance with university protocols.
In his communication with the PMO, the principal relayed that he is experiencing “serious mental, emotional, and professional distress” due to the accusations. He further claimed that external political influences were at play, asserting he was pressured to grant the faculty member a promotion. He alleged that failure to comply would result in being framed in a sexual harassment case.
The principal has criticized the procedural handling of the allegations, stating they were not originally referred to the internal complaints committee as required by UGC regulations and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act. He expressed concerns about facing “undue political pressure” to resign from his position, stating that this pressure came with threats of termination or suspension.
“I have never engaged in any misconduct, sexual or otherwise, towards any colleague or individual,” the principal emphasized in his letter. He demanded that what he described as “conspiratorial, manipulated, and unsubstantiated allegations” against him be dismissed entirely. He also requested “necessary protection from malicious and politically motivated victimisation.”
As the investigation continues, the future of the principal and the response from the broader university community remains uncertain. Questions persist about the implications of this situation for governance within the college and the impact on faculty dynamics. The outcome will likely resonate beyond Ramanujan College, touching on broader themes of workplace ethics and accountability in academic institutions.
This case highlights the complexities surrounding allegations of harassment in educational settings and the careful balance required to protect the rights of all parties involved. Further updates are anticipated as the investigation unfolds.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/delhi-university-news-ramanujan-college-principal-suspended-for-harassment-terms-charges-politically-motivated-11758471760973.html
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Publish Date: 2025-09-21 22:12:00
