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IIT Ropar assistant professor placed on forced leave after PhD student assault allegations
A PhD student at IIT Ropar accused her supervisor of assault and harassment in a social media post on May 2, 2026. On May 3, 2026, IIT Ropar said ICC proceedings had begun, interim relief was granted, and the faculty member was placed on forced leave.
Why It Matters
The case involves alleged physical abuse, allegations of surveillance and intimidation, and institutional handling through internal complaint mechanisms, highlighting how universities respond to harassment claims.
Timeline
2 Events
IIT Ropar places assistant professor on forced leave; ICC proceedings begun and interim relief provided
May 3, 2026
The institute stated that, within 24 hours of the report, ICC proceedings had begun, interim relief was provided, and the concerned faculty member was placed on forced leave. The announcement was shared on social media on the morning of May 3, 2026.
PhD student posts social media alleging assault and intimidation by supervisor
May 2, 2026
A first-year PhD scholar at IIT Ropar posted on social media accusing her supervisor of physical assault and intimidation. She claimed the faculty member punched her in the eye after she refused to comply with his demands; he allegedly wanted her to accompany him to Japan under the pretext of a research tour. She said that after refusing, he threatened to expel her from the doctoral programme. She further claimed that two cameras were installed in the laboratory without authorization to create false evidence against her, and that she was barred from entering the laboratory to retrieve her mobile phone containing evidence.