RCU Professor Suspended Over Harassment Allegations in Vijayapura

Quick Summary:

• K.L.N. Murthy, Head of the Department of History at Rani Channamma University’s Postgraduate Centre in Vijayapura, has been suspended following a sexual and mental harassment complaint.
• A research student made the oral complaint on November 4, 2024, which was later followed by a written complaint with evidence.
• The Internal Grievances Redressal Committee investigated the allegations and submitted its report on July 14, 2025.
• The report found prima facie evidence that Prof. Murthy had misused his position and committed acts amounting to sexual harassment under relevant laws.
• Disciplinary action was recommended to prevent further occurrences; the suspension was executed under Karnataka Civil Service rules.
• prof. Murthy is now prohibited from leaving headquarters without official permission.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The suspension of Prof. K.L.N. Murthy signals a strict stance by educational institutions like Rani Channamma University against workplace harassment within academia. This case illustrates both adherence to gender-equity mandates and institutional accountability in safeguarding students’ rights. By acting on prima facie findings and conducting an internal inquiry through established grievance mechanisms, authorities have upheld procedural fairness while addressing sensitive issues.

However, this episode also underscores systemic challenges regarding power dynamics between academic mentors and students in India’s higher education spaces-a recurring concern that demands broader remedial frameworks beyond individual instances. Ensuring a culture of trust and safety might require additional proactive measures like periodic sensitization workshops or autonomous oversight mechanisms.

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