CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu urged to ensure fair inquiry in Dharamsala college student’s death case

The Himachal Government College Teachers’ Association (HGCTA) has urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to ensure a fair, impartial and time-bound inquiry into the suspension of an Assistant Professor of Government College, Dharamsala, in connection with the death of a girl student.

In a statement issued here, HGCTA president B K Saklani said that while the matter was serious and required a thorough investigation, justice must be guided by law, due process and compassion, rather than haste or public pressure.

Referring to provisions of the POSH Act, 2013, Saklani said that under Section 12(1)(a), the transfer of the respondent during the pendency of an inquiry is a legally sufficient safeguard, and suspension is not mandatory merely on the filing of a complaint.

The association also appealed for fairness towards the three girl students named as accused under anti-ragging provisions, saying they too deserve an opportunity to defend themselves.

“They are also ‘betis’ (daughters) and must be protected from undue mental trauma, social stigma and premature conclusions,” Saklani said.

Expressing concern over media trials and external pressure, the HGCTA stressed that such factors could undermine an unbiased investigation. The association urged the Chief Minister to ensure that the inquiry is conducted in a neutral, humane and evidence-based manner, safeguarding the dignity and rights of all parties involved.

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