A first-year PhD scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar in Punjab has accused an assistant professor of physical assault, harassment and intimidation, prompting an internal inquiry and police attention.
In a social media post, the student alleged that the faculty member assaulted her after she refused to comply with his demands and pressured her to accompany him to Japan on the pretext of a research visit.
In a separate post on Instagram, which has since been taken down, the scholar claimed, “He manipulated even before I joined IIT Ropar by offering help with postdoctoral work and a job.”
The scholar also alleged that she was threatened with expulsion from the PhD programme and denied access to laboratory facilities. She claimed she faced sustained harassment over time.
Among the more serious allegations, she said unauthorised cameras were installed inside the lab to create “false evidence” against her. She also reported that her mobile phone, containing important material, went missing.
INSTITUTE ACTION, PROFESSOR SENT ON LEAVE
IIT Ropar Director Rajeev Ahuja said the institute acted soon after receiving the complaint.
“The institute acted immediately after receiving the complaint, placing the accused faculty member on forced leave for two months and barring him from entering the campus and laboratories pending completion of the inquiry,” he said.
The institute said the matter was referred to police and the Internal Complaints Committee began proceedings within 24 hours.
SAFETY MEASURES, COUNSELLING PROVIDED
Officials said interim steps have been taken to ensure the student’s safety and academic continuity. Medical assistance and counselling support are also being provided to the complainant.
In a post on X, the institute said, “IIT Ropar is fully aware of an incident reported by a PhD scholar. The Institute acted within 24 hours – ICC proceedings have begun, interim relief has been provided, and the concerned faculty member has been placed on forced leave.”
POLICE PROBE UNDERWAY
Police in Ropar said the matter is under investigation. Further action is expected to depend on a formal complaint, with the student and her family waiting for the ICC report before proceeding.
The scholar also shared that the episode has caused distress to her family, adding that they spent nearly Rs 20,000 on travel and that a relative was hospitalised following the incident.
IDENTITY PROTECTION EMPHASISED
Authorities have stressed the need to protect the complainant’s identity, even as the case continues to draw attention online.
The outcome of the inquiry is now awaited as both institutional and police processes move forward.
– Ends
Published By:
Sonali Verma
Published On:
May 3, 2026 19:19 IST
