Akoijam, a professor at the Centre for the Study of Social Systems under JNU’s School of Social Sciences, has termed his dismissal a “witch hunt” and questioned whether due process was followed.
“The dismissal of Prof Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, MP of Inner Manipur, from Jawaharlal Nehru University is deeply disturbing and shameful. As per an official order, the Internal Committee inquired into allegations of sexual harassment against him at the University and recommended major punishment,” Singh said in a social media post.
“Following due process, he has been dismissed from service. Such grave misconduct by a holder of high legislative office and a professor is unacceptable and tarnishes the image of Manipur,” he added.
The chief minister said that as an MP represents the “voice of the people”, the sanctity of Parliament must be upheld.
“When its dignity is compromised, public trust is eroded. On moral grounds, Prof. Akoijam has lost the moral authority to continue as a public representative and should resign from the Lok Sabha immediately, respecting the sentiment of the people,” he said.
According to reports, at least 11 female students had filed sexual harassment complaints against the professor in May. The complaints alleged that Akoijam invited students to his campus residence under the pretext of meetings or gatherings and attempted to harass them sexually. Some students had also alleged that he made obscene and inappropriate remarks in class.
The dismissal order cited the relevant service rules and Rule 11(ix) of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules while imposing the punishment.
