New Tehri. Authorities have opened an investigation after a complaint alleged that a professor at the Shri Raghunath Kirti Campus of Central Sanskrit University in Devprayag, Tehri district, engaged in improper conduct and sexual molestation with two female students. One of the victims is a minor, while the other is an adult.
FIR Filed Under BNS and POCSO
Following a written grievance lodged by the campus administration on 21 September, the Bah Bazaar police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Dr. Suryamani Bhandari under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The alleged incident is said to have occurred on 22 August.
Police Launch Probe
Investigation officer SSI Anita Negi confirmed that the case is being examined impartially, with all available evidence being collected. She added that because certain sections of the POCSO Act prescribe a maximum imprisonment of less than seven years, the police are adhering to the statutory arrest procedure.
Station House Officer Inspector Amarjeet noted that the campus director submitted a detailed complaint describing alleged unwanted physical contact between the teacher and the students. Investigators are scrutinising every facet of the allegation and cross‑checking the supporting documentation.
University Suspends Faculty Member
In response to the seriousness of the accusations, the university administration has placed Dr. Suryamani Bhandari on suspension with immediate effect until the inquiry concludes. Institutional Director P.B.V. Subramanyam explained that the professor has been relocated to the campus guest house to prevent any interference with the investigation.
The university has also commenced its own internal inquiry, working in parallel with the police investigation to ensure a thorough and transparent process.
