Delhi High Court Stays Suspension of Ramanujan College Principal
NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court has stayed the suspension of Professor Rasal Singh, Principal of Ramanujan College at Delhi University, following allegations of harassment and misconduct from three faculty members, one of whom is the daughter of a former Union cabinet minister.
In a writ petition challenging his suspension, Professor Singh asserted that he was not afforded a chance to present his defense and claimed that the allegations were politically motivated, aimed at defaming him and leading to his removal. His petition further suggested that the complaints were retaliatory, stemming from a denial of promotion to one of the complainants due to incomplete documentation submitted to the college’s Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC).
Professor Singh’s legal representation, senior counsel Geeta Luthra, articulated that Singh had made multiple representations, including one to the Prime Minister’s Office, requesting intervention against what he termed conspiratorial collusion and political victimization. He alleged pressure to resign prior to the suspension.
Reports indicate that several members of the college’s Governing Body were not consulted prior to the decision to suspend him, suggesting the possibility of a broader conspiracy. Singh’s petition argued that the proceedings violated principles of natural justice, as no hearing was conducted before the committee reached its conclusions.
While granting interim relief, the High Court noted that, under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, and the University Grants Commission’s regulations, the case should have been referred to the college’s duly constituted Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). The court observed that the committee formed by the university and its subsequent report did not comply with legal standards. The ICC will now oversee the inquiry into the allegations.
The court also recognized Professor Singh’s distinguished academic career, citing his unblemished service record and strong reputation for diligence and integrity. It suggested that he may have fallen victim to personal vendettas and vested interests leading to his suspension. Notably, under his leadership, the NIRF ranking of Ramanujan College improved from 65 to 37 within a single year.
When approached for comment, Professor Singh declined to discuss the merits of the case, stating, “Since the matter is sub judice, I do not wish to comment. I place my full faith in the Indian judicial system and will abide by the directions of the Hon’ble High Court.”
The case is scheduled for further hearing on October 15.
