Nongpoh, May 11: Students of the College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Science, Imphal-Umiam, staged a protest today demanding the immediate dismissal of a professor of the institution who has been accused of sexually harassing two students of the college, whose identities have been withheld.

The professor accused of involvement in the alleged acts of sexual harassment has been identified as Prof. Pranab Dutta.

Protesting against the alleged misconduct by the professor, which has reportedly created fear and insecurity among female students, the students gathered within the college campus carrying placards and banners bearing messages condemning violence and harassment against women. They also strongly urged the authorities of the institution to immediately terminate the accused professor from his post.

In support of the two students who allegedly faced harassment and sexual misconduct by the professor, members of the Women Organization of Ri Bhoi (WORD), led by its President Kong Mirajune Myrsing and adviser Kong Rivulet Kylla along with other members, also joined the protest demonstration.

The women’s organisation further demanded that the college authorities conduct an immediate inquiry into the matter and take necessary action in accordance with the law to ensure punishment for the accused professor.

During the protest, a Magistrate from Ri Bhoi district, accompanied by police personnel, arrived at the campus to inquire into the incident. The Magistrate also directed the concerned authorities of the institution to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations raised by the students, who had taken to the streets in protest against the professor.

Meanwhile, Dr. Binodini Sethi the Chairperson of the Internal Complaint Committee and Dwipendra Thakuria the Dean of the institution stated that the matter is being taken seriously and assured that an investigation is already underway. They further informed that appropriate action would be taken in accordance with established procedures through the committee’s inquiry process.

The protesting students, who were demanding justice for the two alleged victims and the immediate removal of the professor, later agreed to suspend their agitation following the intervention of the Magistrate and after receiving assurance from the institution’s Internal Complaint Committee that a report on the matter would be submitted promptly regarding the allegations of sexual harassment against the professor.

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