Jamia Professor Cleared of Harassment Charges: Triumph of Truth and Academic Justice

New Delhi: In a dramatic turn of events, Jamia Millia Islamia professor Dr Abid Hussain has been acquitted of sexual harassment charges due to which he was suspended. The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and an investigative panel, which were tasked with investigating the allegations, have submitted reports clearing Hussain of any wrongdoing.

Except for a stern warning issued to both parties by the disciplinary inquiry committee, the committees did not recommend any punishment or action against the professor. As a result, the University has revoked Hussain’s suspension with immediate effect and treated the period from February 22 till his reinstatement as time spent on duty.

The suspension is based on a written complaint filed by seven faculty members of the psychology department, who accused Hussain of aggressive behavior and using abusive language during a meeting. Serious allegations included physical assault on the dean and attempted sexual harassment, with Hussain dismissing these claims as a “conspiracy by other faculty members”.

Expressing relief at the acquittal, Hussain lamented the impact the ten-month suspension had on his personal life and attributed the allegations to professional retaliation. This case highlights the challenges in addressing false complaints while emphasizing the importance of a fair and balanced investigation process in academia.