JNU sexual harassment case: Delhi Police summon Congress MP Akoijam for questioning
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Delhi Police on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 issued a formal notice to Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam in connection with sexual harassment allegations at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), summoning him for questioning on Thursday. The move follows the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) at the Vasant Kunj North police station on 11 October, based on a complaint filed by JNU's Chief Security Officer.
The FIR and Charges
The FIR was registered against Akoijam under Sections 75, 75(1)(i), 75(1)(iv), and 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Officials confirmed that the Delhi Police are actively investigating the matter. Akoijam, who was also a professor at JNU before being dismissed by the university, was named in the FIR.
Nature of the Allegations
According to media reports, at least 11 female students lodged sexual harassment complaints against Akoijam in May. The complaints alleged that he invited students to his campus residence under the pretext of meetings or gatherings and reportedly attempted to sexually harass them. Some students additionally alleged that he made obscene and inappropriate remarks in the classroom. These complaints and allegations are reported to have been examined as part of the internal enquiry that preceded the university's decision to dismiss him.
BJP Targets Congress, Rahul Gandhi
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has used the case to mount sharp political pressure on the Indian National Congress, specifically targeting Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. The BJP questioned why Gandhi had not taken action against Akoijam, asking whether his widely quoted 'smash the patriarchy' remark amounts to 'mere political rhetoric.' The party escalated its campaign on 13 October, when a delegation of BJP women Parliamentarians met President Droupadi Murmu, seeking action against the Congress MP.
BJP Mahila Morcha's Demand
Following the meeting with the President, BJP Mahila Morcha President Roop Kumari Choudhary said the delegation drew President Murmu's attention to the 'grave charges' against the Congress MP and urged that he be considered unfit to remain a Parliamentarian. The delegation also appealed to the President to ensure the safety of the students who came forward to raise their voices against the alleged harassment.
What Happens Next
With Akoijam summoned for questioning on Thursday, the Delhi Police investigation is set to intensify. The case carries significant political weight ahead of what critics argue is a test of the Congress's stated commitment to women's safety. The outcome of the police investigation and Akoijam's response to the summons will be closely watched by both legal observers and political parties.