Sanskrit University Faculty Member Charged Under BNS and POCSO After Alleged Misconduct with Students

New Tehri. Authorities have opened a case after a complaint alleged that a faculty member at the Shri Raghunath Kirti Campus of Central Sanskrit University in Devprayag, Tehri district, engaged in inappropriate conduct and molestation involving two female students—one a minor and the other an adult.

FIR Filed Under BNS and POCSO

Following a formal complaint lodged by campus officials, the Bah Bazaar police registered an FIR against Dr. Suryamani Bhandari, a teacher at the institution, invoking relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Timeline of Events

• Alleged incident reportedly occurred on 22 August.
• The campus in‑charge submitted a written complaint on 21 September, detailing alleged inappropriate behavior and molestation of the two students.
• The university subsequently launched an internal inquiry.

Police Investigation Commences

After the FIR was logged, investigators began gathering evidence. SSI Anita Negi, the case officer, emphasized that the probe will be conducted impartially, based solely on the material evidence and factual findings.

Negi added that certain provisions of the POCSO Act prescribe a maximum sentence of less than seven years, so the police are adhering to the statutory arrest procedures applicable to those sections.

Station House Officer Inspector Amarjeet confirmed that the campus director’s written complaint highlighted alleged physical contact with the students. Law enforcement is scrutinizing every facet of the allegation and cross‑checking the supporting documentation.

University Suspends Teacher Pending Inquiry

Given the gravity of the accusations, the university administration placed Dr. Suryamani Bhandari on suspension with immediate effect until the inquiry concludes.

Institution Director P.B.V. Subramanyam explained that the teacher has been relocated to the campus guest house to prevent any interference with the ongoing investigation. The university’s own fact‑finding committee is also proceeding with its review.