Varanasi: The Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has cancelled PhD registration of a research scholar, following charges of sexual harassment against him. The order was issued on Jan 30 by Ranjit Shandilya, deputy registrar, registrar’s office (Academic).According to the order, the PhD registration stands cancelled with immediate effect, and he has been debarred from seeking admission to any course at BHU. The complaint of sexual harassment against the PhD scholar in Faculty of Education was examined by the university’s internal committee in accordance with the provisions of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. He submitted an appeal on Oct 10, 2025, seeking a copy of the enquiry proceedings and evidence. However, the university said such information is protected from disclosure under Section 16 of the Act. The order cited settled legal positions laid down by the Delhi High Court and the Bombay High Court, which mandate strict confidentiality of proceedings and records in sexual harassment cases.On Oct 15, 2025, the scholar sought reconsideration of his case, requesting a sympathetic and corrective approach, and submitted an unconditional apology to his teachers, the head and dean of the faculty, and his colleagues for his words or actions.After examining all relevant facts, records and submissions, the BHU authorities affirmed the findings and implemented the recommendations of the Internal Committee.
