JNU Sacks Professor and Congress MP Over Sexual Harassment Complaints

Jawaharlal Nehru University dismissed Professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam from service on Friday, October 9, following an inquiry by the institution's Internal Committee into allegations of sexual harassment. Akoijam, who taught at the Centre for the Study of Social Systems within the School of Social Sciences, is also the Congress Lok Sabha Member of Parliament representing Inner Manipur.

The administrative action brings intense scrutiny to accountability standards within central universities and student safety protocols on academic campuses. The dismissal follows formal complaints lodged by 11 female students who accused the professor of professional misconduct and harassment during academic interactions.

The university order, signed by Vice-Chancellor Santishree D. Pandit, stated that the Internal Committee completed a thorough inquiry into the grievances. Based on its findings, the panel recommended major punishment under applicable service regulations. The administration invoked Rule 11(ix) of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules to enforce the termination.

"Upon following the due process and considering all available facts and as per the report of the Internal Committee, the punishment of dismissal from the services of the university is hereby imposed," the official order stated. The decision takes effect immediately.

The complaints against the faculty member surfaced in May, when students alleged inappropriate remarks with sexual connotations during viva examinations and interactions. Additional allegations claimed that the professor invited students to his campus residence under the guise of gatherings and linked academic scoring to sexual favours.

The case has triggered wider political reactions beyond the campus boundaries. Senior political figures questioned the leadership of the Congress party regarding the silence maintained over the dismissal of their Lok Sabha member [3].

University officials confirmed that all procedural protocols mandated under the law were strictly observed during the internal panel proceedings before the final penalty was issued. Akoijam has maintained his stance on the matter as the academic community and student bodies monitor subsequent developments closely.