Mandi, 14 December 2024: A professor accused of sexually harassing two female PhD researchers at IIT-Mandi has been compulsorily retired following an inquiry into the allegations, the institute confirmed.
The decision, made by the IIT Board, was based on the findings of the Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) tasked with investigating the case.
“The professor has been compulsorily retired as per the recommendations of the ICC,” registrar Sambhav Pandey told PTI. He added that the decision underscores the institution’s commitment to addressing grievances related to workplace harassment.
The allegations stemmed from complaints lodged by two PhD researchers, leading to the formation of the ICC under the institute’s harassment prevention framework.
The ICC’s report was reviewed by the IIT Board, which ultimately decided on the disciplinary action.
Despite the decision, the professor has challenged his removal, seeking to overturn the ruling through appropriate channels.
The case has drawn attention to the issue of harassment in academic institutions and sparked discussions about creating safer environments for researchers and students.
