JNU dismisses professor following IC inquiry into sexual harassment allegations

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has dismissed Professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam from service following an inquiry by its Internal Committee (IC) into allegations of sexual harassment by students.

The professor, who is also a Congress MP, told media persons on Friday that he had not seen the dismissal order. He said that, if the reports were true, the decision exposed a “witch hunt”.

“I have nothing to hide. I don’t have the report or the dismissal order. If there are allegations, then show me the evidence in the report or anywhere. Only then will you understand how this witch hunt has been going on. If it is true, let me see it,” he said.

Mr. Akoijam taught at the Centre for the Study of Social Systems, School of Social Sciences.

In its order, the university said due process had been followed and all available facts had been considered.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) welcomed the decision. In a statement, the DCW said, “Taking suo motu cognizance of the matter, the Commission sought a report from the Vice-Chancellor of JNU and maintained continuous follow-up on the investigation and subsequent action.”

The commission also emphasised the need for a time-bound inquiry and appropriate action by the university administration.

The RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) also welcomed the decision. The ABVP said, “In this case, 11 female students had filed complaints of sexual harassment against the Congress MP. After considering the Internal Committee’s report and the available facts, the university dismissed him from service.”

The ABVP further demanded that the investigation continue impartially and that no person’s position, political identity or influence be allowed to obstruct appropriate action.