Serious allegations of harassment and assault made by a PhD scholar at Indian Institute of Technology Ropar have triggered widespread concern across academic and student communities. The scholar, who shared her account publicly on May 2, has accused a faculty member of sustained misconduct, including physical violence, coercion, and academic intimidation.The case has brought into focus not just the nature of the allegations, but also the institutional response and the challenges faced by students navigating grievance mechanisms. While IIT Ropar has issued an official statement detailing actions taken—including placing the accused on leave and reassigning the scholar’s supervisor—the issue continues to raise questions about student safety, power dynamics, and accountability in higher education institutions.Claims of Coercion, Harassment, and Academic PressureIn a detailed account, the scholar alleged that the faculty member repeatedly pressured her into expressing personal affection and complying with inappropriate demands. She claimed that refusal to do so directly impacted her academic work, with the professor allegedly shutting access to the lab and ignoring her professional queries.According to her, this created significant hurdles in her PhD journey. “He kept insisting on things unrelated to academics, and when I refused, he would stop responding to my research work,” she alleged. She further claimed that she was threatened with removal from the PhD programme if she did not comply.The scholar also alleged that the professor, along with his spouse, exerted pressure on her, leaving her feeling compelled to agree to certain demands against her will at times. She described being forced into difficult situations regarding academic travel, claiming she was told she could not undertake research-related visits independently and would have to accompany the faculty member.Allegations of Stalking and Excessive MonitoringAdding to the concerns, the scholar alleged excessive interference in her personal life. She claimed the professor made frequent calls—sometimes dozens in a single day—making it difficult for her to focus on her studies.She also alleged that he insisted on connecting over social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat and closely monitored her activities. These actions, she said, contributed to a sense of constant surveillance and distress.Earlier, she had also raised concerns about cameras allegedly installed in the lab without due permissions, claiming they were selectively used and controlled solely by the faculty member.Physical Assault and Escalation of IncidentThe scholar has accused the faculty member of physically assaulting her after she refused to accompany him on a trip that was allegedly presented as research-related. She claimed the situation escalated due to her repeated refusal to comply with his demands.Following the incident, she said she approached both institute authorities and local police. However, she expressed dissatisfaction with the pace and nature of the initial response, alleging delays and procedural pressures during the complaint process.Institutional Response and ICC ActionIn its official statement, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar said it took cognisance of the complaint within 24 hours. The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) initiated proceedings promptly, and interim relief was provided to the complainant.The institute confirmed that the accused faculty member has been placed on forced leave for an initial period of two months, during which he is barred from academic duties, campus access (except medical needs), and any contact with the complainant or associated individuals.The case has also been referred to local police authorities, with IIT Ropar stating that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.Supervisor Changed, Academic Continuity EnsuredTo address concerns regarding the scholar’s academic progress, the institute has approved an immediate change of supervisor. The Head of the Department will now act as the administrative supervisor, while the Doctoral Committee will oversee her research work.The accused faculty member has been removed from the scholar’s Doctoral Committee, ensuring no further academic interaction. The institute described this as a necessary administrative step to allow the scholar to continue her PhD without disruption or pressure.Broader Questions on Campus SafetyThe case has sparked wider conversations about boundaries between faculty and students, the functioning of Internal Complaints Committees, and the need for robust safeguards in academic environments.While IIT Ropar has outlined multiple corrective measures, the scholar’s allegations highlight the emotional, academic, and financial strain such situations can impose—particularly on students from modest backgrounds.As the inquiry continues, the focus remains on ensuring a fair investigation, accountability, and a safe academic environment where students can pursue research without fear or undue pressure.
