Jadavpur University Anti-Ragging Committee Takes Action Against Placement Officer Over RTI Leak
In a significant development at Jadavpur University in Kolkata, the anti-ragging committee has resolved to issue a show-cause notice to the placement officer. This decision follows allegations that sensitive information from a Right to Information (RTI) application was leaked from the officer's office, leading to the harassment of a third-year engineering student.
Details of the RTI Leak and Student Harassment
The incident unfolded when a third-year engineering student filed an RTI request to obtain data related to the university's placement cell. According to sources, the RTI response was subsequently circulated publicly among a group of students, who then used it to harass and threaten the student who had filed the application.
Through investigations and student questioning, the committee discovered that the placement officer reportedly shared the confidential document, thereby revealing the identity of the student. This breach of confidentiality prompted the anti-ragging committee to take swift action, deciding to issue the show-cause notice to the placement officer. Additionally, charges against the involved students will be framed, with necessary disciplinary measures to follow.
Broader Enquiry into Placement Office Performance
Separately, the university established an enquiry committee on April 10 to investigate emerging issues concerning the office of placement and training. An official highlighted that several complaints have been lodged by both teachers and students, alleging that the placement officer was not performing her duties adequately.
One notable incident involved a multinational company revoking job offers to several students after they failed to meet criteria during interviews. The company communicated to the placement officer that despite these shortcomings, the students were permitted to participate in the selection process. Similar occurrences were reported last year, raising concerns about oversight and management within the placement office.
The enquiry panel is tasked with probing these allegations and other related issues to ensure proper functioning and accountability in student placement activities.
