New Tehri, September 2024 – A serious allegation of sexual misconduct has surfaced at the Shri Raghunath Kirti Campus of Central Sanskrit University in Devprayag, Tehri district. According to the campus administration, a faculty member, Dr. Suryamani Bhandari, is accused of inappropriate conduct and molestation involving two female students – one a minor and the other an adult.
Complaint Triggers FIR Under BNS and POCSO
The campus authorities lodged a written complaint on 21 September, detailing the alleged incidents that allegedly occurred on 22 August. Based on that complaint, the Bah Bazaar police registered a First Information Report (FIR) invoking relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Police Begin Fact‑Finding Mission
Investigation officer SSI Anita Negi confirmed that the case is being examined impartially, with all available evidence being scrutinised. She added that because certain POCSO provisions prescribe a maximum imprisonment of less than seven years, the police are adhering to the statutory arrest protocol.
"Our priority is to collect factual material without prejudice and to ensure that the rights of all parties are respected," Negi said.
Station House Officer Inspector Amarjeet noted that the campus director had specifically reported alleged physical contact that was deemed inappropriate. The police are now cross‑checking statements, medical reports, and any digital footprints related to the case.
University Reacts: Immediate Suspension
In light of the gravity of the accusations, the university administration has suspended Dr. Bhandari with immediate effect. Institution Director P.B.V. Subramanyam explained that the teacher has been relocated to the campus guest house to prevent any interference with the ongoing inquiry.
- Suspension effective from the day the FIR was lodged.
- University has launched its own internal probe parallel to the police investigation.
- All pending academic duties of the teacher are being reassigned to ensure continuity for students.
The dual investigations – one by law enforcement and the other by the university – are expected to run concurrently, with findings to be disclosed as soon as they are compiled.
