'Blatant Lies': Congress MP Bimol Akoijam Slams JNU Inquiry Over Alleged Procedural Lapses
Congress MP Bimol Akoijam alleges procedural lapses and confidentiality breaches by JNU administration following his dismissal.
Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam has launched a scathing attack against the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) administration, accusing them of "blatant lies" and serious procedural violations following his dismissal from the university.
The lawmaker, who was dismissed from his position on October 9, has alleged that the university breached confidentiality mandates and failed to follow the legal protocols established under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.
Allegations of Confidentiality Breach and Media Leaks
Akoijam, who was associated with the Centre for the Study of Social Systems at the School of Social Sciences, claims that the university's Internal Committee (IC) failed to provide him with the official investigation report. This omission, he argues, has stripped him of his legal right to appeal the decision.
“I got a mail on the 9th from the IC... saying that the investigation is closed now. They are supposed to submit a report which includes findings and recommendations. The report was submitted, seemingly not to me,” Akoijam stated. He further noted that the Vice Chancellor issued a dismissal notice within hours of the investigation's conclusion, without giving him the mandatory 30-day window to express disagreement or file an appeal.
The Congress leader also accused the administration of violating Section 16 of the POSH Act by leaking his identity prematurely. He claimed this was a deliberate move to instigate public hostility and facilitate a "trial by media."
Political Pressure and Legal Proceedings
The controversy has moved beyond the university campus into the highest political circles. A high-level delegation of women MPs from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)—including Kamaljeet Sehrawat, Bansuri Swaraj, Malvika Devi, S. Phangnon Konyak, and Geeta Shakya—met with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan to demand strict action against the MP.
The delegation submitted a memorandum seeking constitutional intervention to ensure the safety of female students in higher education institutions.
While Akoijam maintains that the allegations are politically motivated and denies any wrongdoing, legal action is already underway. The Delhi Police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) at the Vasant Kunj North Police Station following a complaint by the JNU Chief Security Officer. The FIR, registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), includes sections related to sexual harassment and criminal force.
The university's administration has defended its actions, with the Vice Chancellor previously stating she had sent hundreds of emails regarding the matter. However, Akoijam remains defiant, questioning the fairness of the proceedings: “All the rules are broken... Do you think by simply calling me names, I'll become one?”