Sharing her story, the victim wrote, “Last night in #NammaBengaluru a friend of mine dropped me near my house and as I was about to open the gate, this man came and groped me from behind and started running. I called my friend and asked him to stop him before he rode away.”
“In this video, the man is accepting what he had done. My friend was there to catch hold of him and had it not been the case, we never know what all could have happened and he would have not been caught. We called the Bangalore Police on site and he was taken to jail,” she added.
Last night in #NammaBengaluru a friend of mine dropped me near my house and as I was about to open the gate, this man came and groped me from behind and started running. I called my friend and asked him to stop him before he rode away. *continued pic.twitter.com/Oj0kzU6gGv
— Stuti Singh (@stuutiiiiiiiiii) March 19, 2024
“He wasn’t drunk and he is not a child. He knew what he was doing and he was waiting for a chance to get me. My deepest condolences to his #family because this is the kind of napunsak who is “The Man” of their family,” read her post.
She continued, “To everyone asking why did I leave him? I did not, I have filed a complaint against him and he has accepted what he did in front of cops. The reason behind posting this is spreading awareness and how there are loopholes in the Constitution that would anyway get him out.”
"Sexual harassment is a pervasive and deeply rooted issue that has plagued the societies worldwide. In India, it has been a matter of serious concern, and the development of laws to combat sexual harassment is a testament to the nation's commitment towards addressing this problem. Sexual harassment has existed in India for centuries, but it was only in the latter half of the 20th century that it began to gain legal recognition," said a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.
The top court made these observations while allowing the appeal of the central government against the 2019 judgement of the high court restoring full pension to the retired officer of SSB, who was employed as area organizer at Rangiya in Assam between September 2006 and May 2012.
The order of penalty of withholding of 50 per cent pension for all times to come was imposed on Dilip Paul in connection with the disciplinary proceedings initiated on the allegations of sexual harassment.
"We have reached the conclusion that the appeal (of the Centre) deserves to be allowed. The High Court committed an egregious error in passing the impugned judgment and order...The impugned judgment and order passed by the High Court dated May 15, 2019 is hereby set-aside," Justice Pardiwala, writing 104-page judgement for the bench, said.
While restoring the penalty imposed on Paul by the disciplinary authority, the bench, however, clarified that the Centre "shall not effect any recovery of the amount already paid so far to the respondent".
"We are dealing with a litigation relating to sexual harassment. Sexual harassment in any form at the work place must be viewed seriously and the harasser should not be allowed to escape from the clutches of law. We say so because the same humiliates and frustrates a victim of sexual harassment, more particularly when the harasser goes unpunished or is let off with a relatively minor penalty," it said.
The bench also dealt with the Visakha judgement and the consequential directions given by the top court to effectively deal with cases of sexual harassment. Paul had allegedly harassed the woman employee working as field assistant under him.
Initially, she had lodged a complaint addressed to the Inspector General, Frontier Headquarters, Guwahati alleging sexual harassment by Paul.
The 1599-page chargesheet, accessed by IANS, highlights a specific incident of "inappropriate sexual contact" that occurred in a hotel dining area in Mongolia back in 2016. Two witnesses confirmed that they saw the alleged act committed by Singh, supporting the victim's statement under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). Thus the chargesheet asserts that Singh has committed an offence under Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with assault or criminal force to a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty.
The victim, referred as "grappler (1)" in the charge sheet, alleges that Singh harassed her on seven separate occasions. This includes instances of physical sexual assault on five occasions and sexual advances on one occasion.
The chargesheet deems these allegations as a continuous pattern of harassment over a period of 6-7 years, supported by the victim's statement under Section 164 of the CrPC. It further asserts that this behaviour constitutes stalking, thus making an offence under Section 354D of the IPC.
Additionally, the chargesheet also addresses the allegations made by "grappler (2)" regarding an incident of indecent sexual contact during a group photograph at the Asian Championship held at the SAI Centre in Lucknow. The witness corroborated the victim's statement, leading the chargesheet to declare an offence under Section 354 of the IPC.
Similarly, the chargesheet supports the allegations made by "grappler (3)" regarding an incident of inappropriate sexual contact in Sofia, Bulgaria. The witness, along with the victim's statement and technical evidence such as photographs, further strengthens the case. Consequently, an offence under Section 354 of the IPC is established in the chargesheet.
Regarding the incident at the WFI Office, where the accused allegedly made sexual advances against the victim by seeking sexual favours, the chargesheet considers the victim's testimony as evidence. This incident is treated as private and is corroborated by a witness who overheard the victim recounting the incident. As a result, an offence under Section 354A of the IPC, which pertains to making sexually coloured remarks, is established in the chargesheet.
The chargesheet also addresses the allegations made by "grappler (4)" during the Asian Wrestling Championship in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The incident, reported to have occurred in seclusion without any mention of other witnesses, is treated as a private incident. The victim's testimony, supported by two individuals who heard the victim narrating her ordeal, leads to the establishment of an offence under Section 354 of the IPC, the chargesheet said.
Furthermore, the chargesheet confirms the allegations made by "grappler (5)" regarding an incident in Kazakhstan where the accused "forcibly hugged" the victim in 2012. The victim's testimony, along with supporting witnesses, strengthens the case, resulting in an offence under Section 354 of the IPC.
Lastly, the chargesheet mentions the allegations made by "grappler (6)" regarding an incident of inappropriate sexual contact and sexual advances in Bellary, Karnataka in 2021. The victim's deposition under section 164 of the CrPC supports these allegations, leading to an offence under Sections 354/354A of the IPC, as per the charge sheet.
The accused was charged of sexual harassment by his junior woman IPS officer two years ago.
Besides, the court also slapped him with a fine of Rs 10,000.
The incident had taken place during the election campaigning when the accused and the victim officer were involved in planning security arrangements for the former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswamy.
The complaint in this regard was lodged in February 2021 with the Home secretary and DGP.
Further details are awaited.
The mail sent by her boss Alexander Goulandris read, “Can you please complete the following: The solution us currently used by xx Agris companies and yy Barge lines in corn cargoes in south-north flows in the ???? waterways. Also can you remind me of what the balance of the rollout will be and the approx timing. Thanks.”
In her complaint, Karina stated that the xx stood for kisses, yy for sexual conduct and ???? was a veiled question requesting when she would be ready to do sexual acts.
She further added that her boss wanted a sexual relationship with her and she had rejected his advances. However, after hearing the entire case and reviewing the evidence, the employment tribunal at London Central Court determined that Karina’s perception of the events was ‘skewed’.
“She demonstrated a tendency to make extraordinary allegations without evidence, and she contradicted herself in a way that could not be attributed to a fallible memory,” said Employment Judge Emma Burns as per a report in The Independent.
Later, the Tribunal ordered Karina to pay essDOCS a substantial sum of 5,000 pounds (Rs 513012).
The police have also requested some documents from him, the source said, adding that if necessary, further statements will be taken.
Sources reveal that Singh has denied all the allegations levelled against him.
The police have also taken the statement of Assistant Secretary of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), Vinod Tomar, another accused in the case. He has been named in the FIR filed by the Delhi Police.
Additionally, the Delhi Police has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the matter in-depth. The SIT team has ten officials, including a woman Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP).
"The team has been set up to collect inputs from different states based on complaints filed by female wrestlers," said the official.
Since April 23, prominent Indian wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat, who have achieved Olympic and World Championships recognition, have been staging a protest at Jantar Mantar against WFI chief.
Farmers have also extended their support to wrestlers and had arrived from Haryana and Punjab on Monday to join the wrestlers' protest.
Last month, Delhi Police registered two separate First Information Reports (FIRs) against the WFI chief, based on sexual harassment allegations. The first FIR pertains to the accusations made by a minor and has been filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code concerning the act of outraging modesty.
The second FIR focuses on comprehensive investigations into the complaints made by adult complainants and involves relevant sections of the IPC related to outraging of modesty.
"The statement of the minor female wrestler was officially recorded before a magistrate under Section 164 of the CrPC on Wednesday," said a senior police official.
"In the near future, statements from the remaining six female wrestlers will also be taken before the magistrate," the official added.
Section 164 in CrPC, 1973 specifically deals with the recording of confessions or statements by a magistrate, who then forwards it to the relevant magistrate handling the inquiry or trial of the case.
Currently, the police have already recorded statements from all seven female wrestlers, including the minor, who have filed complaints in this case under Section 161 of the CrPC. Section 161 focuses on witness examination conducted by the police.
In related developments, a Delhi court on Wednesday demanded a status report from the Delhi Police regarding the sexual harassment case involving Singh. Responding to a plea submitted by the protesting wrestlers, requesting oversight of the investigation and the recording of the alleged victims' statements directly in court, the judge issued notice to the police.
The court instructed the police to submit the report by May 12, when the matter will be further discussed.
Last month, Delhi Police registered two separate First Information Reports (FIRs) against the WFI chief, based on sexual harassment allegations. The first FIR pertains to the accusations made by a minor and has been filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code concerning the act of outraging modesty.
The second FIR focuses on comprehensive investigations into the complaints made by adult complainants and involves relevant sections of the IPC related to outraging of modesty.
Furthermore, the official revealed that a notice had been dispatched to the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), requesting specific documents and information regarding the tournaments in which the complainants were involved.
"It has been discovered that certain instances of sexual harassment allegedly took place during tournaments where Singh was reportedly present," as per sources.
A bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice P S Narasimha was told by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Delhi Police, that if the top court felt that an FIR was to be lodged straight away, it may be done.
“We, prima facie feel, that there was a need to conduct a preliminary investigation before the registration of the FIR,” the top law officer said.
Mehta said let an impression not be created that the FIR has not been registered despite the court asking for it.
The bench took note of the submissions of Mehta and said Delhi Police may put forth its views on registration of the FIR on April 24 when the plea of wrestlers will be heard.
The top court on Tuesday issued notices to the Delhi Police and others on a plea by seven women wrestlers seeking registration of an FIR against the WFI president over allegations of sexual harassment, saying the matter is "serious" and requires its consideration.
Several national award winning wrestlers have been protesting at Jantar Mantar here demanding the government make public the findings of an oversight panel that investigated the sexual harassment allegations against Singh.
The top wrestlers, who have won medals for the nation in various international events, said they would continue to press for a proper investigation into their allegations that Singh sexually harassed women athletes.
Women are frequently subjected to snide, deceptive, and flippant statements disguised as comedy, concern, or compliments, which most people fail to notice. These could include remarks such as "you look great for your age" or "you are so fit having just delivered a child", while these statements appear to be innocuous, they serve to maintain and reinforce the engrained stereotypes and biases against women.
While most organisations have a zero-tolerance policy against any form of harassment and bullying, something like casual sexism often goes unnoticed, unspoken or unreported, and overlooked. Most women do not report, as they feel this is "normal" or are often told that they are overthinking. This stems from our own social conditioning, where this kind of sexism is embedded in our culture.
"These ongoing comments over time negatively impact women, which can lead to feeling underconfident, anxious, developing a sense of fear to severe mental health issues forcing most women to quit the workplace in turn limiting their career progression," says Smitha Chellappan, the Head - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Interweave Consulting Pvt. Ltd.
According to Smitha, there are some strategies that organisations can implement to address casual sexism in the workplace by "Creating awareness through training programmes for all employees on what constitutes sexism and how to respond to it. Along with the training programmes, it is also important to create an environment of psychological safety for employees to be comfortable speaking up and reporting discriminatory behaviour or biased comments.
"Implement policies such as anti-discrimination or zero-tolerance policies with detailed reporting mechanisms and communicate the policies clearly to all employees. This must be reiterated by leaders in all the meetings and communications to employees. The onboarding team must make this mandatory information for all the new joiners in the company."
She asserts, "Creating a culture of accountability where all employees across the organisation are held accountable for their actions and behaviour. Organisations must set clear expectations, provide timely feedback and take necessary actions against anyone violating this code of conduct. Develop allies at the workplace, who will step in and speak up when they see and hear derogatory comments or insidious remarks.
"Most importantly, When men become allies and call out each other for sexist comments, it sends a strong message that sexist language and behaviour are not acceptable. Provide coaching for women to identify and break the barriers holding them back to confront biases and sexism in the workplace. Women must reach out to people and groups who are willing to stand with them to address discrimination and harassment."
"The solution lies in education, consistent awareness, and collective efforts of all to bring about a change. There has to be a sustained commitment to challenge gender norms, and stereotypes and call out all kinds of discrimination and biases whether direct or subtle. Organisations must focus on building a culture that values and respects all employees irrespective of their gender or background. The change will take time but it is essential to stay on the journey and most importantly, for the senior management to invest time and effort to be strong allies and advocates for an inclusive and equitable workplace," concludes Smitha.
That is why every working person must know about POSH- Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013. According to the Act, the organization as well as the employer should take appropriate measures to prevent the occurrence of sexual harassment incidents at the workplace.
The POSH Act has also certain rules laid down for the organizations which have to be compulsorily followed. Spreading awareness about POSH is the responsibility of the organization so that the employees are well aware of their responsibilities, roles, rights, and limitations. The Act makes it compulsory for every organization to conduct such training at least twice every year.
Not just women, but even men are sexually exploited in the workplace. There are many types of sexual harassment that are simply passed on just as normal incidents. However, any statement or act that affects the dignity, credibility, and respect of a person comes under sexual harassment. Body shaming, name-calling, belittling, threatening, abusing, and staring, are just common examples of sexual harassment.
That is why every working person should clearly know where he/she must take a stand. It is also to the benefit of organizations to hold such training sessions because harassment can decrease the productivity of the victim which ultimately affects the productivity of the organization.
On the other hand, holding such a training session indicates that the organization is concerned about the overall welfare of its employees and thus it increases the credibility of the employers in the eyes of the employees.
In a glaring example, a viral video has surfaced in which a biker was seen trying to speed away after groping a woman pedestrian. The video shared on Twitter shows a woman walking alone on the sidewalk.
Meanwhile, a biker comes from behind. Seeing the woman alone, he tries to get close to her and stretches out his arm to grope her. However, he faces instant karma and ends up losing his balance.
His bike crashes and he falls to the ground. The whole incident was caught on a CCTV camera installed nearby. Based on a complaint by the woman, police identified the man and indicted him for sexual harassment.
Mugging gone wrong! 🤣 pic.twitter.com/fIBCCTnEI2
— Instant Karma (@Instantregretss) February 10, 2023
The motorcycle used in the crime has been seized. If convicted, the man will reportedly face up to 5 years in prison. The video shared on Twitter has over 152.8K views with over 1904 likes and several comments.
“I could have given him a bonus kick,” commented one user while another user wrote, “Do you have a band aid? Because I just fell for you.”
Angry social media users demand stringent action against the accused biker.
The Asian Games and Commonwealth Games gold medallist broke down in tears while speaking to the reporters as more than 30 wrestlers, including Olympic medalists Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, were staging a protest, here at Jantar Mantar.
Vinesh said she was subject to mental harassment by Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, adding she had contemplated suicide.
"Adhyaksh (WFI President) and a few coaches in the national camp have sexually exploited female wrestlers," she said. "No one takes responsibility for injuries. They talk of banning wrestlers from nationals. The WFI President called me khota sikka (useless). I wanted to commit suicide.
"I've openly said it today, I don't know if I will be alive tomorrow. We have requested many times to move the camp away from Lucknow. Why does it happen only there? Because it's easy for him to prey on the women wrestlers."
Vinesh said she faced death threats for complaining against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
"I have been given death threats since I complained to the Prime Minister regarding harassment," she added.
The wrestlers are demanding change in the WFI administration and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Sports Authority of India to take action against the WFI chief.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been in charge of the WFI for nearly a decade. The 66-year-old was elected unopposed as the WFI President for the third time in 2019 for a three-year term.
Meanwhile, Rio Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik, who won the Commonwealth Games gold medal last year, said she was at the protest site as the face of many young wrestlers who were not able to join them.
"We are here for everyone. We are just faces of so many young people around," she said.
Earlier in the day, Tokyo Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia alleged that Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh slapped wrestlers and abused them, often.
"Our fight is not against the government or the Sports Authority of India (SAI). This is against WFI," he had said.
Reacting to the news of their release, the YouTuber Hyojeong Park, who is known as Mhyochi online, tweeted, "Scared to go live today. Will I be okay?
Twitteratis expressed concern and asked her to be safe. A user commented, "Please stay safe dear. Please contact Mumbai police if you feel unsafe."
Scared to go live today😬
— Mhyochi in 🇮🇳 (@mhyochi) December 7, 2022
Will I be okay? pic.twitter.com/fvjGlwef3C
Similarly, another twitter user wrote, "We are you with.. don't worry," while a third user wrote, "There's so much more to see in India, why only stay in Mumbai?"
The two accused – Mobeen Chand and Mohd Shaikh – were granted bail by a Mumbai court yesterday.
A video of the two sexually harassing the YouTuber while she was live on a street in Mumbai had gone viral. The incident took place when she was livestreaming in suburban Khar area.
I visited ISKCON Temple in Juhu, Mumbai🛕
— Mhyochi in 🇮🇳 (@mhyochi) December 7, 2022
It was sooooo beautiful✨ pic.twitter.com/RigsIxMq1X
While live streaming, Ms Park's video showed one of the accused getting close to her and holding her hand even when she protests. As she begins to walk away from them, the man appears again with another man on a bike and offers her a lift. She later tells him that she did not want it.
Later, she took to her Twitter handle and narrated her ordeal and wrote, “Last night on stream, there was a guy who harassed me. I tried my best not to escalate the situation and leave because he was with his friend. And some people said that it was initiated by me being too friendly and engaging the conversation. Makes me think again about streaming.”
Last night on stream, there was a guy who harassed me. I tried my best not to escalate the situation and leave because he was with his friend. And some people said that it was initiated by me being too friendly and engaging the conversation. Makes me think again about streaming. https://t.co/QQvXbOVp9F
— Mhyochi in 🇮🇳 (@mhyochi) November 30, 2022
Later, another video surfaced where a man and his friend can be seen helping the YouTuber. They rush to the spot to help Ms Park and ask the two molesters to go away and not harass the girl. The two molesters can be eventually seen leaving after the man's intervention, and the YouTuber thanks him profusely. Later, she expressed gratitude and took the two helpers on a dinner.
Earlier, the video of the entire incident went viral on social media, with netizens demanding immediate action against the youths raising safety concerns of tourists in Mumbai.
As was evident from the video, while Park was live-streaming in the suburban Khar area around 8 pm, a youth made attempts to harass her. The youth came very close to her and tried to pull her by holding her hand even when she protested.
However, Park escaped from his clutch and tried to return to her place. But, the youth followed him on the road and again tried to repeat his actions. Fortunately, the youth and his aide were interrupted by another youth, identified as Atharva Tikkha.
While speaking to the media, Park said, “It happened to me in another country, but at that time I couldn't do anything to call Police. I didn't have the capacity to go to the Police station after that, because it was midnight, I didn't know how to file a case, I didn't know how to give evidence. In India, action is being taken very quickly. I've been in Mumbai for over three weeks, planning to stay longer.”
Further, she added, “I don't want this one bad incident to ruin my whole travel and my passion to show wonderful India to other countries.”
Later, the two accused, identified as Mobeen Chand Mohammad Shaikh and Mohammad Naqeeb Sadrealam Ansari were arrested and sent to police custody for one day.
Expressing her gratitude towards her rescuers, Park shared a photo and video thanking the youth who helped her to rescue.
She captioned her post, “Lunch with two Indian gentlemen who help me to post the video and save me on the street👍 Aditya & Atharva”
Lunch with two Indian gentlemen who help me to post the video and save me on the street👍
— Mhyochi in 🇮🇳 (@mhyochi) December 2, 2022
Aditya & Atharva pic.twitter.com/Cu9IYOjBMb
In the video, she introduced her rescuers with pride.
Finally meeting with Indian heroes💜
— Mhyochi in 🇮🇳 (@mhyochi) December 2, 2022
Be my guess for the lunch today! pic.twitter.com/Um3lOeeciT
Later on Saturday, she shared another selfie with the police team who nabbed both the youths who harassed her.
Thank you Inspector @avinashn44 and his team who brought two guys who harassed me into custody. I really appreciated for your work!
— Mhyochi in 🇮🇳 (@mhyochi) December 3, 2022
dhanyawad🧡🤍💚
And now i am going to the khar police station to go to the court! @MumbaiPolice pic.twitter.com/tWo4miXiwc
Police on Wednesday said they had not received any complaint, but they have taken notice of the incident on their own and started a probe into it.
A Twitter handle which shared the video claimed the woman was from South Korea and was livestreaming in suburban Khar area when the incident took place around 8 pm on Wednesday.
The video showed a young man coming very close to her and trying to pull her by holding her hand even when she protested.
As the woman began to walk away from the spot, the man again appeared on a motorbike with a friend, offering her a lift while she told him in broken English that she did not want it.
"Last night on stream, there was a guy who harassed me. I tried my best not to escalate the situation and leave because he was with his friend. And some people said that it was initiated by me being too friendly and engaging the conversation. Makes me think again about streaming," the YouTuber wrote on her Twitter handle.
No one has approached police with a complaint yet, but an investigation has been started, a local police official said.
The police are looking for the man who harassed the woman, the official said.
The incident came to the fore after the victim’s mother lodged a complaint in this connection. In the FIR, the complainant has alleged that she had narrated her son’s ordeal to the school authorities, but they paid no heed.
The incident has been reported from Gurukul International School in Gosaninuagaon area of Berhampur. The victim on several occasions was allegedly beaten up by his seniors who threatened him with dire consequences if he revealed about his torture to anyone.
However, the boy narrated his ordeal to his mother who tried to bring the matter to the notice of the school authorities, but to no avail. With no options left, she then approached the local police and lodged a complaint.
The Saffron party, BJP has severely condemned the heinous act and demanded action in this connection. However, the school authorities refrained from commenting in the issue.
In a similar incident, authorities of Orissa School of Mining Engineering (OSME), Keonjhar imposed a fine of Rs 1,000 each on 82 3rd year students for allegedly ragging 2nd year students.
This apart, the students will also be barred from availing books from the college library during 5th and final semesters. The action was taken after the victim students submitted a written complaint to the Principal.
A few days back, a purported video of a student of Binayak Acharya College in Berhampur ragging his juniors surfaced on the internet. In the video, a student can be seen holding a plastic pipe and asking his junior- a boy and a girl- to act as a couple. They are being forced to kiss each other. The raggers can also be seen abusing and thrashing the duo in presence of the other students.
Similarly, another such incident was reported from Khalikote Junior College where a girl student was allegedly subjected to ragging and torture within the institute’s premises by her seniors.
As per the allegations, a few boys from the senior batch followed the Plus II first-year girl to the classroom and ragged her.
Similarly, a second-year engineering student was allegedly ragged and beaten up by his seniors at the prestigious Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT) in Burla. According to the complainant, a group of his seniors first ragged him and brutally thrashed him, threatening him against speaking about the torture to anyone.
The unabated rise in ragging in Odisha has become a matter of concern. While ragging is usually reported from colleges, the spurt in cases of ragging in schools has become matter of concern for guardians and parents.
This is in accordance with the Ministry of Education directive to ensure that a special drive be conducted in all autonomous bodies/ public sector undertakings and higher educational institutions. Apart from conducting sensitising workshops for their employees, the Ministry has also asked to observe discrimination against women pakhwada from November 25 to December 10, 2022.
Similarly, Internal Complaints Committees have also been asked to conduct special drive to review the pending cases and take action before December 9, 2022.
“I request you to conduct special drive to review the pending cases if any and take appropriate action before December 9. The details of programme/activities conducted by your institution may be provided to gender sensitisation division of UGC by December 11, 2022,” UGC secretary’s letter to vice-chancellors of universities and principals of colleges read.
It is pertinent to mention here that UGC had notified the UGC (Prevention, prohibition and redressal of sexual harassment of women employees and students in higher educational institutions) Regulations, 2015. These regulations clearly state the responsibilities of higher educational institutions, grievance redressal mechanism, process for making complaint and conducting inquiry interim redressal, punishment and compensation, consequences of non-compliance etc. The regulations are statutory in nature and binding for universities and colleges.
The Sexual Harrassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, prohibition and Redressal Act, 2013 was notified on December 9, 2013 to provide a safe and secure environment to women at the workplace. Sexual harassment results in violation of the fundamental rights of a woman to equality under articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution of India and her right to life and live with dignity under article 21 of the Constitution and right to practice any profession or to carry on any occupation, trade or business which includes a right to safe environment free from sexual harassment.
The protection against sexual harassment and the right to work with dignity are universally recognised human rights by international conventions and instruments such as Convention of the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against women, which has been ratified on June 25, 1993 by the Government of India.
The victim claimed the women made him unconscious and abducted him when he was showing them the address.
He said he was abducted in a white car after some chemical was sprayed in his eyes.
Later, he was dumped at a secluded spot late in the night.
The man said he has not complained about the crime to the police.
He, in fact, narrated the sequence of the crime with the local media.
However, the authenticity of the victim's video cannot be verified by IANS. Even senior police officials said if he was sexually abused, he should lodge a complaint with the police.
In an interview with a vernacular daily, the victim claimed his wife asked him not to file a complaint.
He alleged that the kidnapping by four car-borne women was done for sexual abuse.
As the car stopped, one of the girls asked about an address written on a slip. As he was reading the address, one of them allegedly sprayed something in his eyes, after which he was blinded.
The women took him to a secluded location where they drugged him, he alleged.
The accused has been identified as Biswanath Budhia, headmaster of the Model Upper Primary School at Mursingha.
The girls claimed that the HM called them to his chamber and sexually exploited them. The matter came to the light after the students narrated their ordeal to their parents.
The incident has sparked outrage in the village. Irate villagers gheraoed the school and detained the accused headmaster. They kept him under detention and demanded his immediate suspension.
“The accused Headmaster is a repeated offender. Till now, only four girls have brought the allegations but the number of cases might increase as this has been happening for a long time now. He used to call the girls to his chamber and sexually exploit them and also threaten them with dire consequences if they dared to narrate it to their parents,” sources said.
He would threaten to expel the girls from the school if they revealed the matter. So, the girls were scared and did not narrate their ordeal to anyone. However, one of the victims mustered the courage and informed her parents following which other girls also joined her. Now, angry villagers have gheraoed the school and detained the Headmaster, the sources added.
On being alerted, Deogaon Block Education Officer (BEO) along with the local police rushed to the spot and tried to pacify the irate locals.
Tension continued in the region till the filing of this report.
(Reported by Ghateswar Mishra, Bolangir)
A student had alleged that Odia professor Sadananda Nayak on the pretext of giving tuition had called her to his house and passed lewd comments. The victim student had not only lodged a police complaint but also disclosed the entire episode before media. Acting on her complaint, the police had arrested the professor. The said professor is out on bail.
“Many days have passed since the incident. Professor Sadananda Nayak had been threatening me with awarding fewer marks if I reveal the matter to anyone. I felt forced to draw the line when things went beyond tolerable,” the student had alleged.
Similarly, the University authorities had received an anonymous letter informing them about the professor of the History department forcing girl students to stay back in library till late night. The PG Council has been asked to probe into the allegations.
Meanwhile, an audio clip has gone viral. In the clip, an English professor can be heard asking for sexual favours from a girl student for getting her a PhD. However, the professor in question denied the allegations.
“The allegations are baseless. Though I haven’t heard the audio, I can say the voice in the audio is not mine,” clarified assistant professor of PG department of English, T. Eswar Rao.
The students have demanded immediate action against whom the allegations have been levelled.
“We demand a proper investigation into the allegations and if the veracity of allegations is proved, action must be taken against them (the professors) by showing them the door,” said Durga Madhav Pradhan, a student.
In this regard, when contacted, Vice Chancellor of Berhampur University Geetanjali Dash said, “The authorities have taken the matter seriously. The ICC committee comprising seven members is a strong body. It has been investigating into the allegations. The members will interrogate all those against whom allegations have been levelled. Stringent action will be taken as per the committee’s report."
In an email sent to employees, SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell defended Musk after reports surfaced that the company paid a female worker $250,000 to hush up sexual misconduct charges against the Tesla CEO, reports CNBC.
"Personally, I believe the allegations to be false; not because I work for Elon, but because I have worked closely with him for 20 years and never seen nor heard anything resembling these allegations," Shotwell was quoted as saying.
"Anyone who knows Elon like I do, knows he would never conduct or condone this alleged inappropriate behaviour," she claimed.
Last week, a Business Insider report claimed that Musk allegedly offered to buy a horse to a SpaceX female employee in exchange for an erotic massage and touching "his genitals".
"She accused Musk of... rubbing her leg without consent, and offering to buy her a horse in exchange for an erotic massage," the report claimed, quoting interviews and documents.
The incident took place in 2016 and was reported in a declaration "signed by a friend of the attendant and prepared in support of her claim".
Musk refuted the report, saying that "it was clear that their only goal was a hit price to interfere with the Twitter acquisition. The story was written before they even talked to me".
In her email, Shotwell said that "every accusation of harassment is taken very seriously, regardless of who is involved" and that SpaceX HR investigates all the claims it receives.
She, however, did not mention the alleged $250,000 payment to a SpaceX employee to hush up the case against Musk.
"For privacy reasons I will never comment on any legal matters involving employment issues," Shotwell added.
State General Secretary of the Saffron party, Lekhashree Samantsinghar slammed the State government over the issue of women safety while addressing a press conference in the State capital Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
She demanded Majhi’s immediate arrest before he gets time to erase all the evidence against him.
Addressing the presser Samantsinghar said, “Our primary demand is to produce the victim in court and provide her with protection. The people of Odisha need to know her current situation and whereabouts.”
Targeting Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Samantsinghar said, “Naveen Patnaik is responsible for the Home department and law and order situation. He should walk the talk.”
“Patnaik should act against the accused and create an example instead of protecting his legislator all the way,” she demanded.
Not only the BJP but the Congress has also upped the ante against the State government demanding Majhi’s arrest.
Speaking to the reporters, Congress MLA, Dasarathi Gamang said, “Majhi should be arrested and duly questioned to reveal the truth.”
Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) chief, Niranjan Patnaik took to Twitter to target the Odisha government over the issue. “MLA Prakash Majhi has sexually exploited a woman and threatened to kill her. The Congress party will not sit idle until the victim gets justice.
The opposition BJP and Congress in Odisha have been demanding the immediate arrest of BJD leader and Jharigaon MLA Prakash Majhi after a woman lodged a complaint at the Khandagiri police station in Bhubaneswar accusing him of sexually harassing her.
The inmates of Dream Centre Shelter Home have also alleged that the accused harassed young boys as well."I have been subjected to sexual harassment by a person who had joined the shelter home in 2012," a girl inmate said.
Another inmate said "Seemanchal sir harasses all girls of the shelter home. He doesn't even spare young ones."
After getting information about the incident, members of Child Welfare Committee and Commission for Protection of Child Rights raided the shelter home today and later filed a complaint at the Sadar police station.
On the other hand, owner of the shelter home, Simanchal Nayak refuted the allegations and called it an act of revenge by the girls for stopping them from communicating with their lovers.
"They have levelled allegations against me as they were having affairs. Many a times I have seized love letters and mobile phones from the girls," Nayak said.
Child safety officer, Anuradha Biswal said "We will launch an investigation into the case following which action will be taken. If required, we will rehabilitate the children."
The resignation came a day before a Delhi court is to take up the defamation case filed by Akbar against one of the journalists.
Earlier on Monday, Akbar had filed a private criminal defamation complaint against journalist Priya Ramani.
In a brief statement, Akbar said he had decided to seek justice in a court of law in his personal capacity
"I deem it appropriate to step down from office and challenge false accusations levied against me, also in a personal capacity. I have, therefore, tendered my resignation...," Akbar said
He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for giving him the opportunity to serve the country.
Over the last fortnight, about 20 women including Ghazala Wahab, Shuma Raha, Anju Bharti and Shutapa Paul have come forward to narrate their experiences of alleged sexual harassment at the hands of Akbar.
#MJAkbar resigns from his post of Minister of State External Affairs MEA. pic.twitter.com/dxf4EtFl5P
— ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2018
(With Agency inputs)
She has also alleged that her husband cut her hair subsequent to the incident. She has approached the Nilagiri Police Station seeking action against the perpetrators.
Based on the complaint, the main accused has been identified as Dilip Singh, a tractor driver by profession, while his friend happens to be the owner of the tractor.
As per reports, the couple had signed divorce documents before a notary around 15 days ago. Though the woman had earlier abandoned her husband’s house, she came back to him recently and allegedly demanded Rs 5,000 as compensation.
When Dillip refused to give her the money, she approached the Nilagiri Police Station and filed a written complaint against him. Subsequently, police summoned Dilip to the police station where he agreed to pay her the money.
As per reports, though police also tried to convince the woman to live with her husband, she refused.
“Last Thursday at around 8 pm, I was returning from Khantapada market when my husband (Dilip) and his friend took me to a secluded place and raped me. Later, they cut my hair. Police had tried to convince me to go back to my husband but I refused. I had demanded Rs 5,000 as compensation from my husband and he had promised to me pay the money. But I am yet to receive the money from him,” alleged the woman.
Refuting allegations of rape, Dilip said “We went to the police station after a fight on Thursday. She refused to stay with me and demanded Rs 5,000. Me and my friend never kidnapped and raped her, though I did cut her hair. I thought a tonsured head will prevent her from going anywhere and stay with me at my house,” he added.
Sub-Collector of Nilagiri, Harish Chandra Jena said, “I will direct the IIC to launch an investigation into the complaint and ensure strict action against the guilty. Though the woman is yet to file a written complaint, a suo motto case will be registered in this regard.”
Meanwhile, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Biranchi Kumar Mohapatra said the matter was resolved earlier by the police. “If there is an issue again, the woman can file another complaint with the police,” he said.
In the complaint, the students stated the headmaster had molested them on February 23 after showing obscene videos.
The incident occurred while the students were staying at a rented house near Gogua High school where they had appeared for the Matriculation exam conducted by the Board of Secondary Education (BSE).
As per reports, the students had informed their parents about the matter and tried to lodge a complaint at the police station, but they failed as police did not cooperate.
Later the students along with their parents met the Sundergarh sub-collector and sought his intervention. After that a case was registered against the headmaster.
Sources said the headmaster is absconding following the incident.
What is more shocking is that the girl happens to be the niece of the accused.
As per the complaint lodged by the minor, Gogi Singh, the Dhaba owner used to force her to serve liquor to customers in the Dhaba. She also alleged that she was forced to get into flesh trade and the accused used to exploit her physically. Though she lodged a complaint at Barkote police station in this connection, the police didn't take any action against the accused, sources said.
Later, the minor girl met the district SP with help from International Human Rights Council and submitted a written complaint in this regard. Under the SP's direction, the Barkote police registered a case against Singh under various sections and has launched an investigation.
SP B Gangadhar said investigation is on and action will be taken against officials of the Barkote police station if allegations are proved.
International Human Rights Council president Sashmita Dash said, "The girl informed us about her plight. We helped her meet the SP, who assured us to take action against the accused."
The woman, a resident of Bhusanda village, had reportedly visited the hospital for her father’s treatment on Friday.
"The security guard told he would take me to the doctor. I and my father accompanied him to the doctor's chamber when he inappropriately touched me and tried to make sexual advances," said the victim.
Besides, the woman stated that when she approached the hospital authorities, instead of taking action against the security guard, they allegedly gave her Rs 600 to remain silent.
However, director of the hospital Dr Manoranjan Das refuted the allegations brought in by the woman and said, "I gave her the money on Friday night after she requested for monetary help. I have already ordered dismissal of the security guard,” said Das.
The lady officer has lodged a complaint in this regard at Mahila Police Station and her statement has been recorded under Section 161 of the CrPC.
According to reports, the victim officer had earlier levelled charges of mental harassment against the IIC back in 2015. Based on the allegations, SP had ordered the DSP to carry out a probe. But her allegations were dropped after the DSP gave a clean chit to the IIC.
Meanwhile, the accused IIC has refuted the allegations saying that the lady officer is trying to tarnish his image. The officer said that if she was sexually harassed in 2015, why she did not reveal the same in two and a half years.
Citing that disciplinary actions were initiated against the lady cop for unauthorised leave and her promotion was stopped, the accused officer said that he is being targeted by the lady after she was denied promotion.
Meanwhile, Cuttack SP, Bana Bihari Sahu said, “A case has been registered against the IIC under section 376 of IPC. The lady officer did not level any sexual harassment charges when she was interrogated in 2015 after she brought mental harassment charges. So an internal committee has been set up to investigate the matter and accordingly action will be taken,” the SP said.
Bargarh: After a probe was ordered by Bargarh SP, police today arrested four prime accused along with two other associates in connection with the incident of a viral video showing a college girl in uniform being molested in public in Bargarh.
The accused, identified as Umakant Bhoi, Jayaprakash Bhoi, Ajit Barik and Hota Hussein were arrested from Bukuramunda under Paikmal police limits here. Apart from these four, police have arrested two other persons Sahil Barik and Nutan Barik, reportedly involved in the incident.
Acting as per the directions of Bargarh SP, two teams were constituted to probe into the incident and after a search police arrested the four youths this morning.
In the viral video, the girl student was seen pleading before the tormentors to let her go. However, five youths masked in towels kept on harassing her and also thrashed her male friend.
According to sources, the girl had gone to the Khaira Dam with her male friend where, being found alone, she was molested by a group of persons who had reportedly gathered for a picnic party.
https://youtu.be/aLuHdX7losc
The video which is in possession of OTV shows the girl student pleading before the tormentors to let her go. However, some youths masked in towels were seen harassing her repeatedly.
However, the district police are yet to get any clue about the victim and the miscreants.
Padampur SDPO, Laxminarayan Panda said, “Though no complaint has been lodged yet, a probe has been launched as per the directive of the SP.”
The central investigating agency submitted the report in a sealed envelope. Sources said the next hearing on the case will be held in February, 2018.
Itishree, who was working at Tikiri Upper Primary School in Kashipur block of Rayagada district on contractual basis, was allegedly torched to death after she unsuccessfully persuaded authorities to give her protection as she was facing sexual harassment at the workplace. Itishree had brought sexual harassment allegations against former school sub-inspector (SI) Netrananda Dandasena.
The murder of the lady teacher had turned out to be a major political issue considering the fact that the victim had submitted her grievance at all administrative levels, including the Chief Minister’s Office, but her grievance was left unheard.
Finally, she was burnt alive under mysterious circumstances. While the state government had ordered a Crime Branch probe into the incident, the Supreme Court, on the basis of a PIL, had later ordered for a CBI inquiry.
In April last year, Dandasena was sentenced to life imprisonment for conspiring to kill the lady teacher.
https://youtu.be/pIfLw2hT_go
According to the complaint lodged by the girl’s family members with the Town Police, the tormentor is a student of a private college in Baripada who had been blackmailing a girl of the same college threatening to make her private obscene videos public.
After a search, police was able to nab the accused from Baiganabadia while further investigation is on into the incident, sources said.
Shockingly, this is the second instance in Baripada in a span of two days. On Wednesday, a video which had objectionable content of a boy and a girl being forced to strip naked came to the fore after going viral on social media. Three youths were later arrested after the girl’s father knocked the doors of Sadar police and registered a complaint with them.
In a similar incident reported from Keonjhar today, the video of a woman being forced by miscreants to strip inside a forest has gone viral on social media. The incident reportedly happened two years back.
Asked, Keonjhar SP Rajesh Pandit said,"The video which has gone viral is an old one. The girl in the video is clear whereas the persons involved in torturing her could not be identified from the video. A case has been registered at the Town Police station. We are investigating into the matter and the accused will be soon arrested."
The father of the girl, a minor, has lodged a police complaint in connection with the incident today that occurred some six months back.
The video had objectionable content of a boy and a girl being forced to strip naked and came to the fore after going viral on social media. Believed to have taken place near a park in Bhubaneswar, the incident was later confirmed to have happened in Baripada of Mayurbhanj district after Police Commissioner YB Khurania spoke to media.
However, the girl’s family registered a complaint in the police station today.
Sources said, the victim was subjected to humiliation and tortured by a gang of three youths, who forced her to strip and recorded the act on mobile phone. The incident occurred when the girl had gone to a park along with one of her friends near Pratappur.
https://youtu.be/AdN6tsF_R_w
As per reports, both the Reader and Abhishekh complained against each other before the varsity Registrar who later formed a team to probe into the allegations.
The HOD had first complained against the Reader who later accused him of sexual harassment. So, to ensure a free and fair investigation in the matter, a committee has been formed to carry out a probe and submit report on the duo's charges against each other within 15 days, informed the Registrar.
Meanwhile, the Reader has lodged a complaint at the Mahila police station.
Also Read: Ravenshaw sexual harassment: Panel points professor involvement
“We have recorded statement of the Reader and registered a case against the HOD under IPC sections 354-A, 323 and 307,” informed Cuttack ACP Manoranjan Biswal.
Earlier in July this year, a Plus III (first year) girl student of Chemistry department had brought sexual harassment allegations against an assistant professor of the university.
Later, vice chancellor P C Sarangi had suspended the professor and referred the matter to Gender Sensitization Committee Against Sexual Harassment (GSCASH) for probe.
https://youtu.be/ILpmhznxy3g
The arrested youth is being interrogated at the Mathili police station whereas two other accused are reportedly absconding.
According to a complaint filed with the Maithili police of the district, three non-students took a Plus II girl of the college to a room, stripped her naked and video-recorded the whole incident on their mobile phones on November 7. As per the complaint, the trio had also threatened and assaulted teacher Ajay Sutar, who came to the survivor’s rescue.
Meanwhile yesterday, relatives of the girl alleged that teacher Ajay Sutar is threatening them to withdraw the case. Reacting to the allegations, the teacher refuted the charges and said he does not know anything about the incident and was teaching students in a class at that time.
On the other hand, the girl has approached the district Child Welfare Committee (CWC) to make arrangements for her study in another college.
https://youtu.be/xoAa0Vfdc24
As per the complaint, the minor student was forced into unnatural sex repeatedly over a period of time. The student’s mother said, unable to bear, he had also allegedly attempted suicide. “He revealed the incident after I asked him the reason behind his suicide attempt. Besides, he told that he was afraid and worried of what his father’s reaction would be after knowing about the incident and attempted to end his life,” said the student’s mother.
“The teacher used to call me to his room at night but I always denied. He also calls other students to his room,” the minor boy told OTV. He also added that some hostel inmates have harassed him sexually.
Also Read: New twist in Malkangiri college ‘sexual assault’
It has been alleged that over 30 students of the Gurukul Vedik Ashram have been victims of such sexual assaults.
Meanwhile, police have registered a case under IPC section 377 (unnatural sex) and started investigation.
Child Welfare Committee has also started a probe into the case.
Moreover, the concerned college principal Chaitanya Mali also termed the allegations as false and fabricated.
According to a complaint filed with the Maithili police of the district, three non-students took a girl to a room and stripped her naked and video-recorded the whole incident on their mobile phones on November 7. As per the complaint, the trio had also threatened and assaulted teacher Ajay Sutar, who came to the survivor’s rescue.
However, the relatives of the girl are now alleging that teacher Ajay Sutar is threatening them to withdraw the case. Reacting to the allegations, the teacher refuted the charges and said he does not know anything about the incident and was teaching students in a class at that time.
On the other hand, the girl has approached the district Child Welfare Committee (CWC) to make arrangements for her study in another college.
https://youtu.be/bShNr3B4fFw
The SDJM court on Thursday issued the arrest warrant after the lady OAS officer, Santoshini Sahu failed to appear before the court despite being summoned twice in connection with the defamation case filed by IAS officer, Premananda Khuntia.
The OAS officer had earlier alleged that Khuntia sent obscene pictures and videos on her mobile and lodged a complaint on October 10, 2015 following which the Commissionerate Police arrested Khuntia.
Later, Khuntia got bail and was even acquitted. He then filed a defamation suit of Rs 1 crore against Santoshini.
Also Read: Obscene video sent to OAS: PMO directs state government to initiate probe against IAS
Besides, in July this year, Santoshini alleged that the IAS officer was using indirect means to threaten her and her children.
Meanwhile, the reason behind Santoshini not appearing before the court even after being summoned twice is yet to be established.
As per reports, the lady teacher in her complaint lodged with the Puintala police, alleged that the headmaster used to call her privately to his office room and harassed her by outraging her modesty.
“Initially, he tortured me mentally in front of students and other staff. Whenever I visited his office room with any query, he used to touch me inappropriately despite my resistance. Besides, he used to tell me 'cooperate with me and I will cooperate with you; you are already married, you shouldn't have any problem,'" alleged the teacher.
Meanwhile, police have started investigation into the sexual harassment allegations against the headmaster.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nw4v2QivGQ
The incident came to light after some girls of the school wrote a letter to one ward member of the village named Judhistir Naik and also to some other villagers narrating their ordeal.
The girls said their school Headmaster Surendra Kumar Rana and cook-cum-attendant Radhakanta Naik had sexually abused them several times and threatened them with life to not disclose the matter to anyone.
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As per reports, the accused teacher along with the cook of the school used to enter the bathrooms of the girl students, use slang language in front of students and even move and dance naked in front of the girls. Moreover, the headmaster also used to enter the rooms of the students at night and show them obscene magazines, touch their private parts and make them drink alcohol forcibly.
After knowing about the matter, the villagers approached the School Management Committee last month. Later, a case was registered at Joda Police Station under sections 354 (A)/506/34 of IPC along with section 10 of POCSO Act against the duo. Subsequently, the Joda welfare extension officer carried out a ground zero investigation and found enough evidence corroborating the charges against the two, following which they were forwarded to court.
“Such act is heinous in nature. We demand exemplary punishment against the accused,” said a social activist Biraja Mishra.
Also Read: CBSE asks schools to frame rules for teachers
“I am feeling ashamed of the incident. I instantly dismissed both the offenders. Action has also been proposed against the welfare extension officer and a lady teacher of the school,” said Mass Education Minister, Badri Narayan Patra.
WATCH VIDEO
Parents of the school hostel inmates had alleged that headmaster Surendra Kumar Rana and cook Ramakanta Nayak were sexually harassing the girl students and threatening them not to disclose about it to anyone.
The incident came to light after some students fell ill. Later, locals reported the matter to police.
Keonjhar SP visited the school and interrogated the students and parents. He handed over the probe of the case to DSP (Crime) Maheswar Sethi.
“Nearly 40 SC/ST students are residing in the hostel. A case has been registered as per the allegations of their parents. Various objectionable items were found from Rana’s room during investigation which proves about his crime. After recording the statements of the students and getting the evidence Rana and Nayak were arrested and court forwarded,” said Sethi.
She submitted a memorandum addressed to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik demanding action against the professor.
Prior to it, the woman had visited the State BJP office and submitted a memorandum addressed to Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and State BJP President Basant Panda.
Earlier on Friday, the woman, hailing from West Bengal, had lodged an FIR at Mahila police station here alleging sexual harassment by IIT Bhubaneswar Professor PD Reddy and some officials of the institute for helping him.
The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of IIT Bhubaneswar had earlier conducted a probe on the allegations and termed the allegations baseless in its report. The woman had however challenged the report’s veracity.
The woman, hailing from West Bengal, has lodged FIR against Professor PD Reddy for allegedly sexually harassing her and some officials of the institute for helping him.
IIT Bhubaneswar officials had termed the allegations levelled by the student as ‘baseless’. In a press release, the authorities had claimed that the girl was admitted to IIT Bhubaneswar in July 2011 and brought the allegation of sexual harassment on October 6, 2016.
“The matter was then referred to the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). However, she was not satisfied with the report of IIC and has now raised her voice once again for justice,” the release had stated.
“There is nothing pending with the institute and all statutory requirements have been completed holistically,” it had added.
Challenging the report of the ICC, the woman has lodged the complaint at the Mahila police station.
Earlier in July, she had sent a notice to the Director of IIT through her lawyer in this regard. She had also written to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking their intervention.
After getting information about the incident, deputy secretary of Skill Development and Technical Education Department PK Sarangi had sought an immediate report from the IIT Director in connection with the case.
Also Read: Gangrape survivor Plus II student says heinous act was recorded
The woman had alleged that she has been a victim of sexual harassment soon after her marriage in November 2012. Besides, her husband was also mentally harassed by the professor as he protested the harassment. Following it her husband suffered a brain haemorrhage and was in coma for 10 days.
She had also mentioned that even after approaching all top IIT officials no one helped her as the professor is an influential person.
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The complainant alleged that Haraprasad developed a friendship with her by appreciating her writing work and then began showing obscene behaviour. Pallishree claimed that such behaviour has hurt her mentally and has demanded investigation into the matter by the police.
"Hara Prasad Das repeatedly talked bad about me in front of media which has adversely affected my social and family life. So, I have registered an FIR with the police today. I will also file a defamation suit against him in the court," said Pallishree Patnaik.
"In her FIR, Pallishree has mentioned that Das used indecent messages while chatting with her on Facebook," said Bhawanipatna Town PS IIC SN Sathpathy.
Also Read: Indecent Facebook chat: Litterateur Haraprasad Das files defamation case
Earlier, Das had refuted the allegations of harassment through Facebook chat brought by the teacher saying that he has been inactive on his Facebook profile since long and could have been a hacker’s job.
Vice chancellor Prakash Sarangi placed Dr Alekha Kumar Sutar of PG department of Chemistry under suspension after a complaint was lodged by the girl, an official release said.
The VC further asked the Sexual Harassment Cell of the varsity to investigate into the matter. Next course of action will be decided after inquiry, sources said.
Sutar, an IIT (Rourkee) alumnus, has also been ordered not to leave the headquarters without permission of vice chancellor. It is further ordered that during period of suspension the headquarters of the accused professor shall be office of the registrar. However, he will be entitled to the payment of subsistence allowance, it added.
Family members of the woman have lodged a complaint alleging they have been kidnapped by the concerned IIC Ramesh Chandramukhi.
Earlier in June, the woman had approached Kendrapara SP alleging Chandramukhi had passed indecent remarks and assaulted her inside the police station on May 20 when she went to file a complaint on a family dispute.
Based on her complaint SP Dayanidhi Gochhayat had directed DSP SN Das to investigate into the case.
As per the woman’s statement, the IIC of Pattamundai PS Ramesh Chandramukhi passed indecent remarks and assaulted her inside the police station on May 20 when she went to file a complaint on a family dispute.
The police officer even forced her to come to his government residence and sexually harassed her. However, she resisted the officer’s advances and managed to escape from the spot, the statement read.
Later, she lodged a complaint at the Kendrapara SP office following which a probe was ordered.
Meanwhile, State Progressive Women`s Forum president Mamata alleged that even though the Kendrapara SP had soon after the incident told mediapersons that DSP SN Das has been directed to investigate into the case, no action has so far been taken against the IIC.
"We want the SCW to intervene and help her get justice," said Mamata.
According to the woman's statements, IIC of Pattamundai PS Ramesh Chandramukhi passed indecent remarks and assaulted her inside the police station on May 20 when she went to file a complaint on a family dispute.
She resisted the officer's advances and later lodged a complaint at the SP office following which a probe was ordered.
“It has been one month since the incident happened. I have directed DSP SN Das to investigate into the case. Action will be taken based on the reports," Kendrapara SP Dayanidhi Gochhayat, told mediapersons.
As per the complaint filed by the woman, the accused had allegedly established physical relation with her on the pretext of marriage. He had also brought her to the Capital city and they started staying together at a rented house near Khandagiri.
However, the Secretariat employee started sexually assaulting her and forced her to indulge in illicit activities.
She has also mentioned in her complaint that several other women are also forced to carry out such illicit activities in the area.
Meanwhile, Odisha BJP Mahila Morcha has demanded immediate action and arrest of the Secretariat employee.