The Himachal Pradesh government has suspended Assistant Professor Ashok Kumar of the Government College, Dharamshala following allegations of sexual harassment and ragging against a 19-year-old Dalit student, who recently died during medical treatment.
The suspension is effective immediately and will continue pending a departmental inquiry, according to an order issued by Secretary (Education) Rakesh Kanwar.
Details of the Suspension
The Director of Education, Amarjeet Sharma, confirmed that the victim was a B.A. Part-1 student during the 2024-25 academic session.
The government order cited prima facie evidence suggesting the possible involvement of the professor. To establish facts, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated.
Under the suspension order:
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Ashok Kumar’s headquarters will be at the Directorate of Higher Education, Shimla.
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He cannot leave the headquarters without prior permission.
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The suspension is based on Rule 10, Sub-rule (1) of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965.
Fact-Finding Committee Formed
A four-member committee has been set up to conduct a preliminary inquiry into the student’s death and alleged harassment.
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Head: Additional Director, Higher Education, Harish Kumar
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Members: Principals of Dhaliara, Baijnath, and Naura government colleges
The committee is tasked with submitting a comprehensive report within three days, covering:
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Allegations of sexual harassment and assault
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Ragging incidents
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Any caste-based discrimination or comments
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Statements from teachers and students of the college
Police Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The student’s father alleged that his daughter was beaten by three senior students on September 18, 2025, and claimed that the professor engaged in inappropriate behavior.
A video surfaced in which the victim accused the professor of harassment, indecent acts, and intimidation, which caused her severe mental distress.
As a result of the incidents, the student was hospitalized, and her condition deteriorated, leading to her death on December 26, 2025.
The police have registered a case under the following sections:
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Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS): 75 (sexual harassment), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), 3(5) (common intention)
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Himachal Pradesh Educational Institution (Prohibition of) Ragging Act, 2009: Section 3
The investigation is ongoing.
Accused Professor’s Statement
The accused professor, who has obtained anticipatory bail, has denied the allegations and stated that he will fully cooperate with the police investigation.
Impact and Next Steps
The case has drawn attention to college safety, anti-ragging enforcement, and gender-based protections in educational institutions in Himachal Pradesh. Authorities are monitoring the inquiry closely to ensure transparent investigation and accountability.
