DUTA write to VC on alleged lapses in handling sexual harassment cases

The Delhi University Teachers Association (DUTA) today wrote to Vice Chancellor Yogesh K Tyagi seeking his intervention into alleged lapses in handling of several sexual harassment cases in the varsity.

"In many such cases, the accused is in a position of authority such as head of department or principal, despite that he has not been asked to step down.

"In many colleges/departments, elections of student representatives to the Internal Complaints Committee have not been held," DUTA President Rajib Ray said in the letter.

"Even in cases where the committee has conducted an enquiry and submitted a report, the recommendations have not been placed before the Executive Council for implementation," he said.

Ray said the failure of handling of cases in a time-bound manner is another major concern.

He alleged that as a result, women students and employees of the university are facing continued harassment, intimidation and hostility in their workplace.

This has vitiated the working environment, he added.

"We urge you to take the matters up with the seriousness so that the dignity of women students and employees is upheld," he added.