Police Block Bail for Professor Accused of Harassing 10 Students – What HR Must Know

Police have rejected an anticipatory bail plea for a 61‑year‑old visiting professor from Wardha who faces accusations of sexually harassing ten female students during a recent conference at St Xavier’s College, Mumbai. The case, which has captured national attention, underscores a growing demand for clear and enforceable sexual harassment policies across higher‑education institutions, especially those that host international students.

Background and Context

Sexual harassment on campus has long been a global concern, yet many universities still lack robust, transparent procedures for reporting and addressing misconduct. According to a 2023 survey by the All India Council for Technical Education, 19% of students reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment during their studies. International students, often navigating unfamiliar cultural landscapes, are particularly vulnerable, as they may hesitate to report incidents for fear of retaliation or affecting their visa status.

The recent police stance—highlighting the potential for a “communal divide” and describing the alleged offender’s “perverted nature”—exposes the complexities institutions face when allegations involve individuals who hold positions of authority or are celebrated academics. The case also illustrates how quickly rumors can spread, affecting not just the accused but the reputations of the host institution and the safety of its student body.

In India, the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, obliges every organization—academic or otherwise—to establish an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). However, implementation varies widely, and many institutes still lack a functioning ICC or adequate training for staff and students. This policy vacuum creates a climate of uncertainty where students may feel unsupported.

Key Developments in the St Xavier’s Case

Police and Legal Proceedings

• The FIR was registered on 30 Nov 2025 after the professor allegedly photographed students, took unauthorized selfies, and touched them inappropriately during a two‑day conference.
• Azad Maidan police challenged the anticipatory bail request, citing the severity of the offense, the existing testimonies of two victims, and concerns over evidence loss.
• The court will issue a decision next week, but until then the professor remains detained, and the college has suspended him.

Institutional Response

• St Xavier’s College, after preliminary inquiry, asked the professor to leave campus before his scheduled session, indicating an initial recognition of risk.
• The incident prompted a review of the college’s sexual harassment policy, which, according to insiders, lacks clear reporting mechanisms for students from abroad.
• The college is reportedly consulting legal counsel to tighten its internal protocols and ensure compliance with the 2013 Act.

Implications for HR and Academic Administration

• Institutions must now examine whether their sexual harassment policies cover international scholars and students.
• The case highlights the necessity for rapid response teams and independent complaint channels that remain confidential, especially when allegations implicate high‑profile faculty.
• HR departments are urged to conduct gender‑sensitive training and to publish a readily accessible handbook detailing reporting procedures.

Impact Analysis – Why Students Should Pay Attention

For international students, the stakes are high. A hostile or unsafe campus environment can:

1. Endanger physical well‑being: Unreported or mishandled incidents leave students exposed to repeated harassment.
2. Compromise academic progress: Fear of reporting can lead to disengagement, lower grades, and missed opportunities.
3. Affect visa status and future migration plans: Some visa categories require satisfactory conduct overseas; a record of harassment could jeopardize renewals.
4. Impact mental health: Studies show a 2‑fold increase in anxiety and depression among students who have been abused on campus.

Moreover, the public nature of the St Xavier case signals to students that universities are under scrutiny and that any lapse may have national repercussions. If an institution’s sexual harassment policies are perceived as weak, it risks losing international students, damaging its global reputation and the diverse talent pipeline.

Expert Insights and Practical Tips for Students and HR Professionals

1. Know the Policy – In Plain Language

• Inquire before enrolling: ask about the ICC composition, confidentiality clauses, and how complaints are logged.
• Request a copy of the policy and verify that it is updated in line with the latest amendments to the 2013 Act.

2. Understand Reporting Channels

• Make use of independent, third‑party hotlines often set up by universities to protect anonymity.
• Document incidents thoroughly: dates, times, locations, and any witnesses. Keep digital copies of messages or photographs.

3. Seek Support Early

• Reach out to student unions, international student advisors, or campus counseling services.
• Contact local NGOs like the Women’s Collective or international student unions for guidance.
• In extreme cases, consult legal aid clinics that specialize in harassment.

4. HR Professionals: Establish Zero‑Tolerance Protocols

• Create a clear escalation path: initial complaint → independent investigator → ICC review → corrective action.
• Ensure periodic audits of policy compliance, especially when new faculty join from abroad.
• Train staff on cultural sensitivity: harassment can manifest differently across cultures.

5. Leverage Digital Platforms Safely

• Use secure, university‑approved email or messaging systems for complaints to prevent data loss.
• Encourage the use of secure cloud tools for evidence retention.

These steps help protect students and reinforce institutional commitment to a safe learning environment.

Looking Ahead – Legislative and Policy Trends

India is poised to introduce several amendments to the 2013 Act over the next 12 months. Among the anticipated changes:

• Expanded definition of harassment: Including non‑physical, psychological, and digital harassment is likely to be codified, raising the bar for compliance.
• Tightened reporting timelines: A 21‑day window for filing complaints will align Indian institutions with international best practices.
• Stricter penalties: Companies that fail to conduct proper investigations may face fines up to ₹50 lakh.

Academic institutions are expected to adopt international frameworks, such as the UNESCO Guidelines on Sexual Harassment in Higher Education, to strengthen their internal procedures. HR departments must therefore prepare for:

• Periodic policy reviews with stakeholder input.
• Mandatory annual harassment‑prevention workshops.
• Implementation of digital tracking systems to monitor compliance and incident resolution timelines.

For international students, these developments mean that universities must now provide clearer evidence of policy enforcement and robust support systems. As migration flows diversify, universities that respond proactively to these changes will attract a broader student base.

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