Belagavi: Rani Channamma University professor sent on compulsory retirement over sex abuse charges

Belagavi: The Syndicate of Rani Channamma University-Belagavi (RCUB), in its special meeting convened on Thursday, decided to send History professor and research guide Prof K L N Murthy, accused of sexual harassment by a research student, on compulsory retirement, said Vice Chancellor Prof C M Thyagaraja.

Speaking to reporters here, the RCUB vice chancellor said, “Following the media reports that a research student had attempted suicide after she was denied a certificate during the convocation held last month, a special Syndicate meeting was convened.”

“The research student had lodged a sexual harassment case against the guide in question. He was placed on suspension following the charges. Since the investigation into the matter was in progress, the university decided against giving a completion certificate to the student during the convocation. To send a message of zero tolerance against sexual harassment, the Syndicate has decided to send Prof Murthy on compulsory retirement,” the V-C told reporters.

The student will be issued the convocation certificate if she pays the requisite fee, he said.

On the student’s allegation that she was not issued the certificate during the convocation as she belonged to a Dalit community, the vice chancellor said, “We have not discriminated against any individual over their caste, creed or religion. We have given a research fellowship of Rs 3.76 lakh to the student and the PhD notification has not been withdrawn. She is working as a principal in a college. Many students belonging to Dalit communities were issued a convocation certificate.”

Registrar Santosh Kamagouda said that, inquiry into the allegations made by a research scholar was made as per UGC norms and POSH Act. “As inquiry had indicted Murthy, he was placed under suspension. In the meantime complaint against him was withdrawn. We, however, followed due procedures.”