Why Was an Assistant Professor at Assam University Suspended on Sexual Harassment Allegations?
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Synopsis
In a significant move following student protests, an Assistant Professor at Assam University has been suspended due to serious sexual harassment allegations. This decision comes amid a backdrop of student demonstrations, highlighting the urgent need for accountability within academic institutions.
Key Takeaways
- Assistant Professor suspended for sexual harassment allegations.
- Students organized protests to demand accountability.
- Inquiry initiated following complaints from students.
- Jena instructed to report to police but did not comply.
- Previous cases of faculty suspensions for similar allegations.
Guwahati, May 7 (NationPress) Following a wave of protests, an Assistant Professor at Assam University, a central educational institution, has been suspended on allegations of sexual harassment. According to officials, Assam University Registrar Pradosh Kiran Nath announced that Ajit Kumar Jena, who teaches in the Department of Social Work, is now on a 90-day suspension effective immediately.
The Registrar's statement indicated that multiple complaints of sexual harassment had been lodged by students within the department against Jena, alongside a report from the department head.
“In light of these complaints and reports, a comprehensive inquiry has been launched. Pending the inquiry, Jena was instructed to apply for the appropriate leave on May 5, which was communicated to him via e-mail on the same day,” the order detailed.
Additionally, Jena was notified that an FIR had been registered with the police regarding the allegations against him.
He was required to cooperate with law enforcement and report to the police immediately. However, according to Nath's order, Jena neither applied for leave nor reported to the police.
“Given Jena's failure to comply with university directives, the competent authority has decided to place him under suspension for a duration of 90 days with immediate effect,” the order stated.
The order further instructed Jena not to leave his headquarters or access the university campus without prior permission from the relevant authority.
Previously, students staged demonstrations and hunger strikes on campus, demanding Jena’s removal from service and his arrest.
Three female students also filed sexual harassment complaints against him with the police.
The students alleged that Jena threatened them regarding their grades and sent inappropriate WhatsApp messages to other students.
In the past, several faculty members at Assam University, located in southern Assam's Silchar, were also suspended due to sexual harassment allegations.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the nation in ensuring that educational institutions uphold the highest standards of conduct. The recent suspension of the Assistant Professor at Assam University reflects the increasing courage of students to speak out against misconduct. It emphasizes the need for thorough investigations and accountability in our educational systems.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the suspension of the Assistant Professor?
The Assistant Professor was suspended due to multiple allegations of sexual harassment made by students, following a series of protests demanding accountability.
How long is the suspension period?
The suspension period is set for 90 days, effective immediately.
What actions are being taken regarding the allegations?
A detailed inquiry has been initiated, and the Assistant Professor has been instructed to cooperate with the police investigation.
What have the students demanded?
Students have demanded the dismissal of the Assistant Professor and his arrest for the alleged harassment.
Has this incident occurred before at Assam University?
Yes, there have been previous instances where faculty members at Assam University were suspended due to sexual harassment allegations.
