Advertisement
New Delhi: A student of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has taken action against the lack of action from the administration following her complaint of sexual harassment. Starting an indefinite protest at the main gate of the university, they alleged harassment on the campus late on the night of March 31 against four persons, including two former students. Despite the university initiating an investigation, the complainant claims that the accused are still roaming freely on the campus, raising serious concerns about their safety and the effectiveness of the institution’s response mechanism.
The incident reportedly occurred during a late-night walk near the JNU Ring Road, where the complainant and a friend were followed and allegedly harassed by four individuals. Following her complaint, the university administration ordered an inquiry into the matter.
However, the complainant has voiced dissatisfaction with the pace and transparency of the investigation, highlighting that more than 30 hours had passed without any significant action taken against the accused. In response, JNU’s Chief Proctor Sudhir Kumar assured that due process is being followed but emphasized the need to give the accused an opportunity to present their defense.
The students’ decision to strike has sparked conversations about the effectiveness of JNU’s mechanisms to address sexual harassment and JNUSU’s role in advocating for victims. The complainant criticized JNUSU’s handling of the situation, following which he took matters into his own hands by initiating a protest.
This act of protest underscores the ongoing struggle for a safe educational environment and the urgent need for institutional reforms to ensure the safety of all students. The Left-led student union has alleged that the accused have links with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a claim the ABVP has categorically denied.
This situation in JNU is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by survivors of sexual harassment in educational institutions. The bold step of confronting the complainant highlights the frustration and desperation of students demanding justice and a safe campus environment.
