HAU Takes Swift Action, Suspends Two Assistant Professors Following Molestation Complaint
In a significant development at Haryana Agricultural University (HAU) in Hisar, the administration has taken decisive action by suspending two assistant professors. This suspension follows serious allegations of molestation leveled by a female PhD scholar enrolled at the prestigious institution.
University Constitutes Inquiry Committee for Thorough Investigation
The university administration has moved promptly to address the grave complaint by constituting a formal inquiry committee. According to an official statement released by HAU, the committee has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the allegations. The administration has emphasized that further disciplinary measures will be determined based solely on the findings and recommendations presented in the committee's final report.
University officials have confirmed that the complaint originated from a research scholar within the College of Biotechnology. While specific details of the complaint remain confidential and have not been disclosed to the public, the administration has clarified that the core allegations pertain to acts of molestation. The complainant has chosen not to engage with media representatives at this time.
Immediate Suspension to Ensure Fair Proceedings
In its official communication, the HAU administration stated that upon receiving the formal complaint, it immediately placed the two accused assistant professors under suspension. This preemptive step was described as a necessary measure to guarantee a fair and unbiased inquiry process, free from any potential influence or obstruction.
"An inquiry committee has been constituted, and further action will be taken after submission of its report," the university's statement explicitly noted, underscoring its commitment to due process.
Historical Context: University's Past Controversies
This incident casts a renewed spotlight on HAU, which has faced various controversies over the preceding year. Notably, a similar case was reported in September 2011 at the institution's then Basic Science College. In that earlier instance, a female PhD scholar had also lodged a formal complaint of molestation against a professor, highlighting recurring concerns regarding safety and conduct within the university environment.
The current case raises critical questions about institutional safeguards, the protection of research scholars, and the mechanisms in place to address such serious grievances. The academic community and stakeholders are now closely watching as the newly formed inquiry committee begins its work, awaiting its report which will shape the university's subsequent actions and potentially its policies moving forward.
