Row over ‘harassment’ at Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya; lecturer dismissed

Tension flared up today at the Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya after protests erupted over the alleged harassment of students, leading to the dismissal of the concerned lecturer. In a major action, the accused lecturer Shatrughna Samal was dismissed from the Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya in Bhubaneswar on Thursday in connection with the alleged harassment of a student. Later, he was also arrested.

Principal Bijay Jena confirmed the action, stating that Samal was expelled following a written complaint submitted to the authorities.

After the complaint, Samal has also been reportedly arrested by the police.

Also Read: Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya girl student goes missing, probe on

Earlier on the day, a three-member team from the State Culture Department launched an inquiry into the alleged harassment of the student. As per reports, the team, led by Special Secretary Deba Prasad Dash, along with two other officials, visited the campus to conduct a thorough investigation. 

Following the inquiry, Samal was dismissed.

The allegation was raised by some girl students who accused Drama Department lecturer Samal of harassment. 

The incident reportedly triggered unrest on campus, leading to noisy protests by the students. The students also hit the streets. A girl reportedly lost her senses during the protest, and she was admitted to the hospital. Local police and lecturers of the college tried to pacify the students, and eventually they went inside the campus.

"As per the allegation by the students, a guest faculty member named Shatrughna Samal has been dismissed today. Other legal actions in this regard will be taken by the police. Whoever is found indulging in such behaviour will face action as per the law," said Principal of Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, Bijay Jena.

"The students should submit written complaints. Had the students given their written complaint, either I would have dismissed the concerned lecturer or solved the problem earlier," he added.