College students, staff allege sexual harassment by asst prof

Warangal: Students and women staff at CKM Government Arts and Science College here have submitted a written complaint to the district Collector alleging sexual harassment and intimidation by Assistant Professor and NCC officer Captain Dr Satish Kumar Pujari, who is reportedly on on-duty (OD) assignment from Bhadrachalam Government Degree College.

According to the complaint, the professor allegedly makes personal video calls to women students and pressures them to meet him outside the college.

He threatens to block or delay marks, certificates, and fee reimbursement if students do not comply with his demands.

He insists that students spend time alone with him in exchange for better grades, according to the complainants.

Stopped certificates and fee reimbursement of at least one student who reportedly refused to comply with.

The complaint also states that male students have been threatened with being implicated in drugs cases if they raise questions, creating an atmosphere of fear among students and staff.

Women staff members have also alleged harassment, claiming they were abused and threatened for questioning his handling of classes and student matters. The complaint further alleges one-sided actions in the appointment and removal of guest lecturers, and that the professor expanded his influence by taking charge of key roles such as academic coordinator and exam branch responsibilities. The complainants allege that, despite multiple complaints, the college principal has supported the professor. They also claim that the vice-principal resigned from the post due to the situation, and that the professor had previously faced inquiries but allegedly used political influence to avoid consequences—though these specific claims require official verification.

Students, women staff, and parents have demanded an independent inquiry committee with external officials, rather than an internal college probe.

Suspension of the professor from all duties involving direct contact with women students and women staff until the inquiry is completed.

A review of the functioning of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), and recording of statements from affected students and staff under strict confidentiality.

Strict legal and departmental action if the allegations are substantiated.

The allegations remain at the complaint stage and require an official, impartial inquiry to establish the facts. Given the seriousness of the accusations and the number of parties involved, district authorities are expected to initiate a fair investigation and ensure safety and confidentiality for those who have come forward.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KOTHA RAMESH

[email protected]