Mysuru: In a case related to the sexual harassment of a lady professor, Central Institute of Indian languages (CIIL) director was served notice by Jayalakshimpuram police to face enquiry on Friday, August 5.
Prof Avdesh Kumar Mishra
Case history
In her written complaint, Professor Dr.Sangeetha Saikia had accused the CIIL director Professor Avdesh Kumar Mishra of emotionally harassing her by forcing her to involve in sexual activity and making repeated provocative phone calls using foul language since 2013. It is learnt, she had come to Mysuru in 2013 to attend an important meeting where she came in contact with the CIIL Director.
After the complaint was lodged, the CIIL director proceeded on leave citing ill health from July 25 to Aug 5, according to a clarification given by his deputy.
Case takes a different turn
Though the professor has accused the director of sexual harassment, it is learnt that both were very close to each other earlier and the rift between them was due to financial matters. Few sources reveal that the Director was instrumental in getting Dr.Sangeetha Saikia, the professor’s job and both had toured important locations across India before their relationship turned sour. There are allegations against the professor that she managed to extract lot of money from the director over a period of time. When the professor’s husband came to know about their relationship, he expressed his opposition. To avoid embarrassment, the professor approached National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), according to lawyers seeking anticipatory bail for Mishra and has filed a petition in this regard. The public prosecutor is likely to question that move on Aug 6.
The Director will face police investigation on his return after the leave period on Aug 6 against the second notice served by the police.
Police approach MHRD
In the mean time, the police have approached Ministry of Human Resources and Development (MHRD) to gather more information and are awaiting reply.
