Multiple students allege harassment by LU Asst Prof: ICC report

Lucknow: The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of Lucknow University on Monday submitted its report at an emergency Executive Council (EC) meeting, flagging serious allegations against an assistant professor in connection with a reported paper leak and harassment case involving a BSc student.According to the report, multiple girl students from the department came forward during the inquiry and recorded their statements on camera, alleging harassment by the accused.“According to the findings, the complainant was not the only victim and testimonies indicated a pattern where the accused allegedly used academic inducements to exploit students,” said a senior LU professor who was part of the emergency Executive Council.The complainant also alleged that the assistant professor used to call her late at night, often in an inebriated state, asking her to come to his cabin under the pretext of helping her with the syllabus and assignments. He also urged her not to ‘ditch’ him.She further alleged that he claimed to have “fixed” her viva and pressured her not to appear for it, instead insisting that she meet him in his cabin.“During the proceedings of the ICC, the accused admitted that the voice in the viral audio clips was his but defended himself by claiming it was a slip of the tongue,” said an ICC member.The ICC found his explanation unsatisfactory. The committee termed his conduct “entirely inappropriate, undesirable, unethical and of a highly serious nature,” recommending the strictest disciplinary action.Taking cognisance of the report, the university administration formed a disciplinary committee to further examine the matter and verify all statements and evidence. The committee is expected to submit its interim report on Tuesday.Vice-chancellor, Prof JP Saini said: “Lucknow University will not compromise at any level when it comes to the safety, dignity and fear-free academic environment of its students, especially girls. This incident is a serious blow to our institution’s cultural and ethical values. Such conduct by a teacher is unacceptable in any civilised society.”He added that based on the ICC report, a high-level disciplinary committee has been formed with immediate effect.“The administration is ensuring action with full transparency and in accordance with established rules. The law will take its course and the guilty will face exemplary punishment that will serve as a precedent for the future,” the VC said.