JNU Fires Professor After Sexual Harassment Charges by Japan Embassy Employee

Delhi: Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) terminated a senior professor following allegations of sexual harassment filed by a Japanese embassy official.

JNU’s Executive Council announced the decision after the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) submitted its report confirming the charges. The university acted swiftly and emphasized its zero-tolerance policy on sexual misconduct.

University Acts on ICC Report

JNU Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit confirmed the decision after the council meeting. “We cannot tolerate any form of harassment. The ICC followed due process, and the council decided accordingly,” she said.

The ICC began its inquiry after the Japanese official submitted a formal complaint. The committee collected statements, reviewed evidence, and concluded that the professor had engaged in inappropriate behavior during a professional engagement.

Professor Denies Allegations, Plans Legal Action

The accused professor, an internationally recognized expert in international relations, denied all allegations. “I reject these charges. I plan to challenge this decision in court,” he said in a statement.

He called the decision “unjust” and claimed the university acted under pressure. However, the administration maintained transparency throughout the inquiry process and insisted on upholding institutional integrity.

Campus Community Reacts Strongly

The JNU Teachers’ Association supported the university’s action. “This sends a clear message—no one stands above accountability,” the association said in a statement.

Students also welcomed the decision. “We need safer campuses. The university must continue supporting survivors and ensuring strong redressal mechanisms,” said Ananya Joshi, a student at the School of International Studies.

Diplomatic Circles Take Note

The Japanese embassy refrained from official comment but appreciated the university’s swift response through informal communication. A Japanese official said, “We expect professional environments during diplomatic-academic collaboration. We welcome responsible action.”

JNU Strengthens Safeguards

Following the incident, JNU announced new initiatives for gender sensitization. The Gender Sensitization Committee Against Sexual Harassment (GSCASH) will organize training sessions and create awareness about reporting mechanisms.

“We plan to hold regular workshops and make reporting safer and more accessible,” said GSCASH Chairperson Dr. Kavita Mehra

Read more: https://newstapone.com/2025/03/18/anonymous-letter-exposes-up-professors-shocking-abuse-of-students/