New Tehri — A complaint has been lodged against a faculty member of the Shri Raghunath Kirti Campus of Central Sanskrit University in Devprayag, Tehri district, alleging inappropriate behavior and sexual molestation of two female students, one of whom is a minor.
Complaint and FIR Registration
Following a written grievance submitted by the campus administration on 21 September, the Bah Bazaar police registered an FIR on 22 August against Dr. Suryamani Bhandari under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Police Investigation
Investigation Officer SSI Anita Negi confirmed that the case is being examined impartially, based on the evidence collected so far. She added that because certain provisions of the POCSO Act prescribe imprisonment of less than seven years, the police are adhering to the statutory arrest procedures.
Station House Officer Inspector Amarjeet noted that the campus director’s written complaint specifically mentioned alleged unwanted physical contact with the students. The investigating team is scrutinizing all statements and forensic material related to the allegations.
University’s Immediate Response
In light of the serious nature of the accusations, the university administration has placed Dr. Suryamani Bhandari on suspension pending the outcome of the inquiry. Director PBV Subramanyam said the lecturer has been relocated to the campus guest house to prevent any interference with the ongoing investigation, while the university conducts its own internal probe.
“The safety of students remains our top priority, and we will cooperate fully with law‑enforcement authorities,” the university spokesperson added.
