JNU gender panel to probe rape case, expel accused if guilty

JNU’s panel that looks into complaints of sexual harassment has been asked to take action in a case of rape reported on the campus.

Jawaharlal Nehru University’s panel that looks into complaints of sexual harassment has been asked to take action in a case of rape reported on the campus.

A 28-year-old research student has alleged that a fellow student, Anmol Ratan, raped her after offering her a spiked drink in his hostel room in Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi. (HT Photo)

The administration wrote to the Gender Sensitization Committee Against Sexual Harassment (GSCASH) on Monday.

A 28-year-old research student has alleged that a fellow student, Anmol Ratan, raped her after offering her a spiked drink in his hostel room. Ratan, a member of the Left-leaning All India Students’ Association (AISA), has been expelled from the student outfit. The police have registered an FIR in the matter.

“It has come to the notice of the administration that an incident of rape took place in Brahmputra Hostel on August 20, 2016. GSCASH may take due notice and appropriate position, as per the rules. A copy of FIR filed by the victim with Delhi Police is enclosed,” the letter to GSCASH read.

Read: JNU research scholar alleges she was drugged, raped by fellow student on campus

A member of the committee, requesting anonymity, said the body will probe into the matter and recommend action against the accused. “The rape survivor can also approach GSCASH. We will look into the incident,” the member said.

“If found guilty, the accused may lose hostel accommodation or face rustication or expulsion. His degree may also be withheld,” sources said.

JNU officials said along with the criminal action against the accused, the university administration will also punish the accused, if found guilty.

JNU students’ union (JNUSU) had written to the vice-chancellor, seeking action against Ratan. The university in a statement had said, “JNU administration strongly condemns an incident of heinous rape in a campus hostel. It has completely shaken the JNU community and has tarnished the image of the university.”