Vice Dean Removed from Post; Inquiry Panel Begins Investigation
In Vadodara, authorities at Baroda Medical College have removed the Vice Dean and Senior Professor of the Pharmacology Department from his administrative role following allegations of harassment made by female students. He has also been relieved from examination-related responsibilities pending investigation.
The action comes after around a dozen women students submitted a written complaint to the Dean, alleging inappropriate behavior during a recent practical-viva session. The matter has now been formally taken up by the college administration.
According to the complaint, the Senior Professor allegedly held female students by their hands and made remarks that were described as indecent, leaving them feeling uncomfortable. The incident reportedly occurred inside a classroom during an academic session.
The investigation has been handed over to the Women’s Harassment Committee, a nine-member internal panel constituted to probe such matters. The professor has been summoned to appear before the committee on Monday, March 2, as part of the ongoing inquiry process.
During preliminary discussions, another issue surfaced regarding the absence of CCTV cameras in several parts of the campus. Notably, the classroom where the alleged incident took place does not reportedly have surveillance coverage, raising concerns about monitoring and student safety.
The accused Vice Dean has denied any wrongdoing or ill intent. He stated that he briefly held a student’s hand for three to four seconds solely to demonstrate a procedure during the practical session.
In a statement to local media, he emphasized his 28-year career as a professor and his previous role as student dean, claiming that no such complaints had ever been made against him. He suggested that his words may have been misinterpreted and expressed regret if any student felt uncomfortable.
He further apologized, stating that students are like his daughters and that he had no inappropriate intentions. Meanwhile, the Women’s Harassment Committee continues its investigation, and further action will depend on its findings.
