Serious allegations of harassment and assault by a PhD scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar have sparked widespread concern in the academic and student communities. The scholar, who shared her account publicly on May 2, has accused the faculty member of persistent misconduct, including physical violence, coercion, and academic intimidation.The case has drawn attention not only to the nature of the allegations, but also to the challenges faced by students navigating institutional responses and grievance procedures. While IIT Ropar has issued an official statement detailing the actions taken—including placing the accused on leave and reassigning the scholar’s supervisor—the issue continues to raise questions about student safety, power dynamics, and accountability in higher education institutions.Claims of coercion, harassment, and academic pressureIn a detailed statement, the scholar alleged that the faculty member repeatedly pressured her to express personal affection and comply with inappropriate demands. She claimed that her refusal to do so directly affected her academic work, with the professor allegedly blocking her access to the lab and ignoring her professional questions.According to him, this created significant obstacles in his PhD journey. “He kept insisting on things unrelated to academics, and when I refused, he would stop responding to my research work,” she alleged. He further claimed that he was threatened with expulsion from the PhD program if he did not comply.The scholar also alleged that the professor, along with his spouse, pressured her, forcing her to comply with certain demands at times against her will. She described being forced into difficult situations regarding academic travel, claiming that she was told that she could not take research-related trips independently and had to be accompanied by a faculty member.Allegations of stalking and excessive surveillanceAdding to the concerns, Alam alleged excessive interference in his personal life. She claimed that the professor made frequent calls — sometimes dozens in a single day — making it difficult for her to concentrate on her studies.She also alleged that he insisted on connecting her to social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat and kept a close eye on her activities. He said these actions contributed to a feeling of constant surveillance and anxiety.Earlier, he also raised concerns about cameras allegedly installed in the lab without permission, claiming they were selectively used and controlled by faculty members.Physical assault and increased incidenceThe scholar has accused the faculty member of physically assaulting her after she refused to accompany him on a trip that was allegedly related to research. He claimed that the situation escalated due to repeated refusal to comply with his demands.After the incident, he said he contacted both the institution’s authorities and the local police. However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the speed and nature of the initial response, alleging delays and procedural pressures during the complaint process.Institutional response and ICC actionIn its official statement, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar said it took notice of the complaint within 24 hours. The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) immediately initiated proceedings, and the complainant was granted interim relief.The institute confirmed that the accused faculty member has been placed on compulsory leave for an initial period of two months, during which he is barred from academic duties, access to the campus (except for medical needs) and any contact with the complainant or those concerned.The case has also been referred to the local police authorities, IIT Ropar has said it is fully cooperating with the investigation.Changed supervisors, ensured educational continuity.To address the concerns regarding academic progress of the scholar, the institute has approved immediate change of supervisor. The head of the department will now act as the administrative supervisor, while the doctoral committee will oversee his research work.The accused faculty member has been removed from the Scholars Doctoral Committee, ensuring no further academic interaction. The institution termed this as a necessary administrative step to allow the scholar to continue his PhD without any hindrance or pressure.Broader Questions on Campus SafetyThe case has sparked a broader conversation about boundaries between faculty and students, the work of internal grievance committees, and the need for stronger safeguards in the academic environment.While IIT Ropar has outlined a number of remedial measures, the scholar’s allegations highlight the emotional, academic and financial stress that such situations can impose, especially on students from marginalized backgrounds.As the inquiry continues, the focus remains on ensuring a fair investigation, accountability, and a safe learning environment where students can pursue research without fear or undue pressure.
