GU sacks assistant professor for sexually harassing student | Goa News

Panaji: Following an investigation, Goa University (GU) has dismissed an assistant professor who was accused of sexual harassment by a student last year. The student’s father filed a complaint with the Panaji Women’s Police in August 2023.

According to the complaint, the assistant professor called the girl into his cubicle and touched her inappropriately on two occasions. Police said the father initially filed a complaint with the university and, when the university did not take action, called the police.

Police added that the father also approached a member of parliament, who in turn informed the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) about the incident. The CMO intervened in the matter. Police then recorded the student’s statement in the last week of August 2023. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

A day after the police registered the FIR, the student filed a complaint with the GU, which was then forwarded to the university’s Sexual Harassment Committee for necessary action.

Later, student unions also met GU Vice Chancellor Harilal B. Menon and demanded speedy justice for the victim of the sexual harassment case, adding that such incidents shatter the faith in the institution the teacher represents.

The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) members alleged that the university’s Internal Grievance Committee (ICC) has not taken any action since May 2023, when the student filed a complaint. They also alleged that the ICC is inactive and never takes any proactive steps towards the safety of women on campus.

However, the university administration said that the committees would meet on time and that justice would be ensured.