IIT Ropar Student Alleges Sexual Harassment by Professor, Says She Was Beaten and Threatened After Refusing Trip Demand

May 4, 2026

Jalandhar: A research student at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Rupnagar has accused her research guide—a professor—of sexual harassment. The student alleged that she was coerced into accompanying him alone on a research trip. When she refused, she was threatened with expulsion from the research program. She also claimed that she was physically assaulted.

A formal complaint regarding this matter has been lodged at the Rupnagar police station. The police stated that an investigation is currently underway, based on the statement provided by the student. The IIT administration confirmed that the professor has been sent on a two-month compulsory leave, and the matter has been referred to the institute’s Internal Complaints Committee.

Student Alleges: Professor Pressured Her to Engage in Misconduct

The research student alleged that the professor frequently made various inappropriate demands, which she refused to fulfill. She claimed that upon rejecting these demands, she was subjected to physical harassment. The victim further alleged that she was forced to accompany him alone on a research trip and was threatened with removal from the research program if she declined.

Investigation Initiated After Receiving Complaint

Institute Director Rajiv Ahuja confirmed that an internal inquiry was initiated immediately after the complaint was received on April 29. The matter has since been handed over to the police. Taking into account the student’s safety and the potential disruption to her academic studies, the Internal Complaints Committee granted her interim relief within 24 hours of receiving the complaint.

Victim Speaks Out: Assured of a Change in Guide, But None Has Occurred

The victim has expressed dissatisfaction with the institute’s handling of the matter. She alleges that while she was assured that her research guide would be changed, no concrete steps have been taken in this direction thus far. The student also alleged that she was summoned late at night and pressured to provide a statement. The local police are currently conducting a formal investigation into the case. At present, the authorities are awaiting the internal report from the institute.