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