Jamia suspends prof who wrote to prez alleging irregularities

Jamia Millia Islamia has suspended a professor, who had sent a representation to President Pranab Mukherjee alleging irregularities in the university's functioning, on account of "misconduct".
Professor Obaid Siddiqui said the order he received last night stated the varsity has initiated disciplinary proceedings against him and that he has been suspended for three months.
"I have also been restrained from travelling outside Delhi during the period without taking prior permission of the competent authority," Siddiqui, the former director of Jamia's mass communication centre, said.
Jamia Spokesperson Mukesh Ranjan said: "The professor has been suspended on account of allegations of misconduct as per provisions of the Jamia Act and in the best interest of the university. The circumstances under which the decision has been taken will be conveyed to the varsity's Executive Council."

The professor had sent a petition to the President, who is Visitor to the university, alleging financial and administrative irregularities in the varsity's functioning and objecting to the introduction of 5 per cent seats for wards of Jamia Millia Islamia employees despite Delhi High Court having quashed a similar arrangement in 1997.
Siddiqui, had earlier this week sought police protection alleging he has been threatened with dire consequences for sending the representation.
The varsity had earlier said, "It was improper on Siddiqui's part to approach the President without articulating his concerns before the university authorities.