'Started Playing Vulgar Songs, Touched My Stomach': Sexual Harassment Case Hits NIT Silchar, Professor Suspended

Guwahati: A professor at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Silchar has been suspended after a female student accused him of sexual harassment, triggering protests on campus.

The accused, Dr. Koteswara Raju Dhenukonda from the Electrical Engineering Department, was suspended immediately following a complaint filed by a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) student. The action came after students staged an overnight protest demanding strict measures against the professor.

'Started Playing Vulgar Songs, Touched My Stomach'

The student, in a detailed written complaint, claimed that the harassment occurred when the professor summoned her to his chamber, citing concerns over her low grades.

"He asked me to sit beside him... and asked me why I get less marks. He started holding my hands and touching my fingers. He then gradually held my thighs. He then started playing vulgar songs in his computer in front of me... touched my stomach and rubbed my stomach. I started crying but he did not stop. He asked me to feel comfortable and spread my legs properly. He then grabbed my neck from behind and kept holding it," the complaint, which has since gone viral, stated.

The student said she managed to escape after her friend, who was waiting outside, called her phone. She described the experience as "molestation and mental and sexual harassment."

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Institute Takes Action, Chamber Sealed

Following the uproar on campus, NIT Silchar sealed the professor’s chamber, where the alleged incident took place.

The institute's registrar assured full support to the victim, stating, "All necessary support is extended to the victim so that she feels safe & comfortable."

Police Await Formal Complaint

The local police have acknowledged the incident but confirmed they have not yet received a formal complaint from either the victim or the institute.

The accused professor remained unavailable for comment on the allegations.

The incident has sparked discussions about campus safety and harassment policies, with students demanding stricter measures to ensure a safe learning environment at the prestigious institution.