Provocative speech: Enquiry against college lecturer

The step has been taken as per  Para 11 of the Mangalore University Employees’ Classification, Regulation and Appeal (MUECRA) Rules.

The notice served on June 26, states that Somayaji had spoiled the peaceful atmosphere inside Mangalore University College campus in Mangalore on January 28 this year, by giving derogatory statements against Hindu religion and thereby tarnished the reputation of the University. The University also stated that Somayaji also has violated the the Para 3(1) (III) of Mangalore University Employees’ Service (Conduct) Rules.

Somayaji was asked to reply within 7 days or should appear directly to explain his clarifications. Further the notice warned that action will be taken against Somayaji under Para 10 of the MUECRA Rules, if he fails to respond to the notice in time.

It can be recalled that the Mangalore University College Students Association had submitted a written complaint to the college principal, accusing Somayaji of making derogatory statements against Hindu religion before the media. Students also boycotted classes and organised protests several days after the incident.

Following this, University had served a show cause notice to Somayaji on February 2.

Meanwhile, Somayaji had denied all allegations levelled against him and had termed it as ‘baseless’ in his reply submitted on February 7. Somayaji also had challenged authorities to produce valid documents to prove the allegations.