Justice delayed: No action against professors found guilty of sexual harassment

Pune: A case of sexual harassment of a woman professor at a prestigious Deccan Education Society college has come to light. Though the college’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) found two male professors guilty, the society has not taken any action even after a year.

The professor, who works at a prestigious college of the Deccan Education Society, filed a complaint alleging that one of her male colleagues was constantly trying to approach her under various pretexts and making inappropriate remarks.

These comments were unprofessional and extremely derogatory. Another professor allegedly harassed her by invading her private life and causing her psychological distress.

The harassment reportedly took place between July 2022 and March 2023. The professor first filed a complaint with the then chairman of the College Development Committee (CDC) and demanded action.

However, since the accused professors were close to the board and officials of the society, efforts were made to shield them. The plaintiff was put under pressure to withdraw her lawsuit. Only after her persistent pursuit did the society finally establish the ICC.

Pramod Rawat, chairman of the governing body and council of the Deccan Education Society, said, “There was a misunderstanding between two persons in the institution. We tried to mediate and resolve the issue amicably.”

When that didn’t work, we followed the University Grants Commission guidelines and gave both parties an opportunity to present their views. After hearing both sides, we made a decision. All procedures were followed within the law.”

ICC findings and lack of action

The ICC heard both the plaintiff and the accused professors and found them guilty on 24 of 25 counts. Despite this, no action was taken against the professors.

Frustrated, the victim approached Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar in March, but her complaint was not acted upon. Hoping for justice, she then appealed to Savitribai Phule Pune University. and the College Tribunal. A hearing is expected at the end of July.