New Delhi: A violent altercation erupted at Delhi University‘s Ramjas College on Wednesday afternoon when a group of students, allegedly wielding sticks and iron rods, attacked others protesting against a teacher accused of molesting a student. Later in the day, the professor resigned from his position as joint dean, according to sources.
The clash sparked a blame game. Students’ Federation of India (SFI) alleged that Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) members initiated the attack around 12.30pm. However, ABVP denied the allegation, claiming that they were also protesting for the teacher’s immediate dismissal and a police investigation. They further claimed that their six-hour dharna and the locking of the dean’s office compelled the professor to resign.
ABVP alleged that supporters of the accused teacher, including outsiders and another teacher from Ramjas College, were behind the attack.
SFI secretary Aishe Ghosh said they would file a police complaint against the attackers. Clips of the incident were shared on social media. “The professor enjoys administrative protection, leading to a gross violation of internal complaints committee (ICC) rules. ABVP’s attempt to suppress the movement with violence will not deter us,” said Stanzin, SFI vice-president at Ramjas College. AISA claimed the accused professor was a repeat offender, referring to a 2021 complaint that highlighted similar allegations against him.
ABVP Delhi secretary Harsh Attri accused the professor and his associates of disrupting their protest. “The accused professor and his supporters assaulted students and attempted to derail the protest. Despite this, ABVP remained steadfast and continued till the professor’s resignation,” he said.
The controversy stems from allegations of molestation against the professor, a claim he has denied. The principal earlier confirmed that the student reported the incident to ICC. According to officials, the incident occurred in early Dec, but the student took time to formally file the complaint. The college administration didn’t comment on Wednesday’s incident.
