'Students have not sought change of guide'

With this, the fate of other students (seven, including one post doctoral student) who were being guided by Shivabasavaiah seem to be undecided. Quoting ‘rare circumstances’ that had developed in the recent days, University of Mysore authorities said: “Other students have not sought change in the guide. If they do, we will have to place it before the syndicate before arriving at a decision.” With no precedence of such incidents at the University, there is no set pattern to evolve a decision, sources at the varsity said.

Sarita, a student of PhD has levelled charges of sexual harassment against her former guide Shivabasavaiah, Head of Zoology Department, who was suspended pending enquiry.

Sarita had attempted suicide on March 11, seeking action against the culprit.

Faux pas

Shivabasavaiah’s profile on the University’s website continues to be hosted as before. It not only lists him as ‘Chairman’ of the Department, but also continues to list Sarita’s name under the category of students he is guiding.