Address sexual harassment in Indian labs, say 165 scientists

A group of more than 150 scientists from across the country has spoken out against sexual harassment against women in scientific laboratories, noting that research in India, particularly its higher echelons, remains predominantly the preserve of men.

A statement, signed by 165 scientists, calls upon Indian scientists to support those who have accused a professor at Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University's School of Life Sciences of sexual harassment.

"We call upon Indian scientists, and women scientists in particular, to support the young complainants' quest for justice, and to further this effort to publicly acknowledge and spread awareness on this extremely serious issue," the letter reads.

The scientists also emphasise that sexual misconduct should not only be condemned. It should also invite black-listing from serving on scientific committees, receiving funding, awards and election to academies.

The petitioners include scientists from JNU as well as several leading institutes across the country such as the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, the National Centre for Biological Sciences, the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Indian Institute of Science.

"The aim of the letter is to bring awareness among scientists about the problems faced by some women scientists at academic institutions and to show solidarity with women faculty/students who garner courage to speak out and often feel pressure to withdraw complaint(as is the case at hand)," Riddhi Shah from JNU's School of Physical Sciences told PTI.

Asked about how prevalent sexual harassment was at scientific institutions, she said she did not have any factual data.

"But from my past experience being on a women cell, I do know that it does happen in some labs as students are especially vulnerable when they work for research for long hours especially at night."
Discussing allegations of sexual harassment against the JNU professor, she said, "The administration should come forward to punish such elements in the system and take stern action against him."