New Delhi: In a significant relief for Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, the Delhi High Court on Monday paused Jawaharlal Nehru University’s (JNU’s) decision to sack the Congress MP and professor over sexual harassment allegations.
Hearing Akoijam’s petition challenging his dismissal, Justice Anup J Bhambhani issued notice to the university, and listed the matter for hearing in January.
JNU terminated the services of the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha MP, a professor at the premier Delhi university’s School of Social Sciences, on October 9 after an inquiry into sexual harassment complaints filed by 11 female students.
Akoijam has denied the allegations. He challenged his termination and also eviction from his official residence on the JNU campus, saying that he was not given a proper opportunity to be heard. He claimed that the JNU did not follow procedures prescribed under UGC Rules and JNU Act, including issuing a notice to him before terminating his services.
The BJP launched protests at various levels, demanding Akoijam’s resignation from Parliament.
A BJP delegation met President Droupadi Murmu and sought her intervention, demanding action against Akoijam and his suspension from Lok Sabha. The delegation also sought protection for the students who had filed complaints.