New Tehri – Authorities have opened a case concerning alleged indecent behavior and molestation of two female learners at the Shri Raghunath Kirti Campus of the Central Sanskrit University in Devprayag, Tehri district. One of the victims is reported to be a minor, while the other is an adult.
The campus administration lodged a formal complaint, prompting the Bah Bazaar police to register an FIR against Dr. Suryamani Bhandari, a faculty member, under the applicable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The alleged episode is said to have occurred on August 22. The institution’s in‑charge filed a written grievance on September 21, accusing the teacher of inappropriate conduct and sexual molestation of the two students. In response, the university has also launched its own internal probe.
Police Initiate Probe
Following the FIR registration, investigators have begun scrutinizing the accusations and gathering pertinent evidence. SSI Anita Negi, the investigating officer, stated that the case is being examined impartially based on the facts and material available.
She added that because certain provisions of the POCSO Act prescribe a maximum punishment of less than seven years, the police are adhering to the statutory arrest procedures.
Station House Officer Inspector Amarjeet noted that the campus director submitted a written complaint detailing alleged unwelcome physical contact with the students. Law enforcement is reviewing every facet of the allegation and cross‑checking the supporting evidence.
Faculty Member Suspended Pending Inquiry
Given the gravity of the accusations, the university’s administration has immediately suspended Dr. Suryamani Bhandari until the investigation concludes.
Director PBV Subramanyam explained that the teacher has been relocated to the guest house to prevent any interference with the investigative process. Simultaneously, the university is conducting its own disciplinary inquiry.
