MU panel finds another professor guilty of sexually harassing student; no action taken yet
The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of the Women Development Cell (WDC) at the University of Mumbai have found an associate professor from the Marathi department guilty of sexual harassment. However, despite the WDC’s recommendation, the MU has allegedly failed to take any action against the professor.
The WDC report, which is in possession of the DNA, states that a complaint was forwarded by a student through the Board of College and University Development (BCUD) against Dr. Mahendra Bhaware, associate professor, department of Marathi. The victim had first informed about the harassment to HoD Dr. Bharati Nirgudkar. Moreover, a written statement of a masters student from 2013-2015 and an M. Phil student was recorded by the WDC which confirmed the harassment. One PhD student also spoke to the ICC about experiencing sexual harassment from Bhaware.
ICC observed that a ‘Sorry’ message was sent to the victim by Bhaware on November 30, 2016. Moreover, the victim managed to get statements of other students who had experienced the same alleged harassment.
WDC concluded that the allegations made by the victim are valid/correct and Bhaware had used his position to sexually harass and exploit the victim.
WDC recommended that if the appointment of Bhavre is permanent, then his promotions and increments for a minimum of five years must be stoppped and to not allow him to hold any position of authority for the same time period. If the appointment was contractual, thenit should be immediately terminated and not be considered for any renewal.
When DNA contacted the victim, she said, “I was working for Bhaware when he tried to kiss me on the university premises. Later, he frequently made coloured remarks. But when the harassment increased, I informed the head of the Marathi department and filed a formal complaint with WDC.”
“Despite the WDC report, the MU has failed to take any action against the professor. Senior officials are shielding him and not taking any action,” said the victim.
Dinesh Kamble, MU Registrar, said, “We have kept the case infront of the management council. Adequate action will be taken.” When contacted by DNA Bhaware said, “The allegations are false and it is because of internal politics. I am innocent.”
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