Symbiosis International (Deemed University) has placed a professor at its Nagpur campus on compulsory leave and formed a high-powered committee to investigate allegations that he sent inappropriate messages to a former female student and encouraged her to follow Islamic religious practices.
The action follows protests by members of right-wing organisations demanding the professor's removal and strict action. The university has said further steps will be considered after the committee submits its report.
According to officials, the allegations have not yet been substantiated through a formal police complaint or supporting evidence.
Symbiosis Orders Internal Inquiry
The university issued a statement on Sunday saying it had taken note of reports circulating on social media and the allegations raised in the matter. It subsequently constituted a committee to examine the claims.
The institution said it remained committed to protecting the safety and dignity of students and staff. A senior university official reportedly confirmed that the professor had been placed on compulsory leave while the inquiry proceeds.
Sources also indicated that the professor had submitted his resignation. However, the university's inquiry is expected to determine the next steps.
Police Say Allegations Remain Unverified
According to police officials, the allegations include sending objectionable messages to the former student and encouraging her to follow Islamic practices. The student reportedly left the institution around six months ago.
Nagpur city police said the former student and her father had not filed a formal complaint or submitted the alleged messages despite being asked to do so. Police officials said the claims could not be independently verified without supporting evidence.
A senior police official also stated that the family had raised the matter with right-wing organisations but had not approached the police despite repeated requests.
Protests Held at University Campus
The allegations prompted protests by members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), who demanded the professor's removal and strict action.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Nityanand Jha said around 15 to 17 people representing different organisations gathered at the campus at approximately 11:30 am on Saturday.
Police intervened and facilitated discussions between the protesters and university officials. A delegation subsequently met the university administration to raise its demands.
What Happens Next?
The university's committee will examine the allegations before further action is considered. The police have indicated that the claims remain unverified in the absence of a formal complaint and supporting material.
The matter remains under inquiry, and the allegations should not be treated as established findings unless supported by evidence.
For official institutional information, visit the Symbiosis International University website.
Conversation
Be kind and stay on topic. Comments are moderated; abuse, spam and personal attacks are removed. Report a problem