RI-BHOI: Students of the College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences (CPGSAS), Umiam staged a strong protest on campus on Tuesday morning over allegations that a professor had harassed two female students.
The protesting students demanded the immediate removal of the accused professor, identified as Pranab Dutta. Carrying placards and raising slogans, the students said educational institutions should be safe spaces and that students should not become victims while pursuing their studies.
The students stated that the matter had already been reported to the Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) of the institution. However, they warned that if no action is taken, they would intensify their protest and adopt further democratic measures.
Following the protest, a magistrate along with police personnel arrived at the campus to bring the situation under control and maintain peace. Authorities also directed the Internal Complaint Committee to conduct a proper inquiry into the allegations and make the findings public.
The students maintained that if the committee fails to remove the accused professor, they will continue their agitation and pursue additional steps to seek justice.
Meanwhile, members of the Women Organization of Ri Bhoi (WORD), led by President Mirajune Myrsing and adviser Rivulet Kylla, also visited the campus after receiving information about the complaint. The organisation expressed solidarity with the protesting students and condemned the alleged incident.
Speaking to reporters, the organisation stated that many young women leave their homes to pursue higher education, and educational institutions must remain safe and secure for all students. WORD strongly condemned the alleged misconduct and demanded strict action if the accusations are proven true.