Why Was a Professor at Tirupati’s SV University Suspended Due to Ragging?

Click to start listening
Why Was a Professor at Tirupati’s SV University Suspended Due to Ragging?

Synopsis

A professor at Sri Venkateswara University in Tirupati has been suspended over serious allegations concerning his conduct during a student interaction session. This incident has sparked widespread student unrest and demands for accountability, highlighting ongoing issues of ragging in educational institutions. What prompted this drastic action and what are the implications for the university?

Key Takeaways

  • Professor suspended amid serious allegations of misconduct.
  • Inquiry committee found evidence supporting claims of inappropriate behavior.
  • Student protests reflect ongoing issues with ragging in universities.
  • Police are investigating claims of ragging and the professor's oversight.
  • University commits to a safe learning environment.

Tirupati, Nov 6 (NationPress) The Sri Venkateswara University, located in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati, has suspended a professor for allegedly acting inappropriately towards students during a session intended for interaction, which was marred by a ragging incident. Professor S. Viswanatha Reddy, from the Department of Psychology, faced suspension after an inquiry committee submitted its findings.

This action came after allegations from some junior students who claimed that during the interaction session, the professor permitted senior students to engage in ragging. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Tata Narsinga Rao issued the suspension order, highlighting claims that the professor behaved inappropriately towards specific First Semester M. Sc. (Psychology) students during a session held on November 1, where he failed to ensure proper faculty supervision, leaving the junior students unattended.

As per the Vice-Chancellor's directives, Prof. Viswanatha Reddy will remain suspended pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings against him and has been instructed not to leave Tirupati during this time.

Previously, the affected students, accompanied by their parents and student group leaders, approached the SV University Police Station to demand immediate action against the professor, citing a need for police protection. A tense atmosphere developed as a significant number of students assembled at the police station.

The students have accused Prof. Viswanatha Reddy of facilitating ragging by the seniors, asserting that they had previously lodged a complaint with university authorities three days prior without any response. They are also seeking action against the senior students involved in ragging and claiming they are facing pressure not to report these incidents.

The police have registered a case and initiated an investigation.

Point of View

It is imperative to highlight that incidents of ragging within educational institutions are a pressing concern that demands immediate and decisive action. Sri Venkateswara University's response to the allegations against Professor Viswanatha Reddy reflects a necessary zero-tolerance approach towards such behavior, reinforcing the institution's commitment to creating a safe and respectful learning environment for all students.
NationPress
06/11/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the allegations against Professor Viswanatha Reddy?
Professor Viswanatha Reddy was accused of behaving inappropriately towards junior students during an interaction session, allegedly allowing senior students to rag them.
What actions have been taken by the university?
The university suspended Professor Reddy pending an inquiry and directed him not to leave Tirupati during this period.
What was the students' response to the situation?
Affected students, along with parents, demanded immediate action at the police station and called for police protection against ragging.
Is there an ongoing investigation?
Yes, the police have registered a case and are currently investigating the allegations of ragging and the professor's conduct.
What measures are being taken to prevent ragging?
The university is expected to take strict actions against ragging and ensure a safe environment for students through disciplinary proceedings.
Nation Press