JNU dismisses professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam after sexual harassment inquiry

Jawaharlal Nehru University acted on a complaint filed by 11 students against professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, who also serves as a Congress MP from Inner Manipur. Vice-chancellor Santishree D Pandit issued an immediate dismissal order after the Internal Complaints Committee concluded its inquiry, recommending a major penalty under the Central Civil Services Rules, 1965. The committee’s recommendation was contested: while the presiding officer and most members supported a major penalty, student representatives refused to endorse it, preferring a lesser sanction, resulting in a dissenting report.

The accusations detailed sexually suggestive comments during viva sessions, inappropriate advances at the professor’s on-campus residence, and offers of better grades in exchange for sexual favors. The investigation was delayed by a summer break, extending beyond the usual 90-day timeframe. No comment was received from the professor or the Congress party regarding the dismissal.