JNU Protests Demand Arrest of Congress MP Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

New Delhi, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : Students from the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) staged a protest outside the main gate of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on October 14, calling for the immediate arrest of Congress MP and former professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam. The demonstration was prompted by allegations of sexual harassment against Akoijam, who has already been dismissed from his teaching position at the university.

The ABVP urged the police to take swift and impartial action regarding the allegations. They criticized the Congress party for its silence on serious issues of sexual harassment involving its representatives, highlighting a disconnect between the party’s proclaimed commitment to women’s rights and its inaction in such cases. The protest featured slogans like “I am a girl, I can fight,” emphasizing the need for accountability from political leaders.

The group expressed concern over the Congress party’s neutral stance in a matter that has already seen institutional action and a police complaint filed. They argued that dismissing the situation as merely a political dispute is inappropriate, especially given the gravity of the allegations.

Mayank Panchal, president of the ABVP’s JNU unit, stated, “Women’s safety should not be limited to slogans and speeches. The Congress must adopt a clear and accountable stance on serious matters involving its representatives.” He noted that the internal committee at JNU has already investigated the complaints, resulting in Akoijam’s dismissal.

Praveen Kumar Piyush, the minister of the ABVP unit, reinforced the call for justice, insisting that political influence should not obstruct legal proceedings. “The safety and dignity of female students are paramount,” he asserted, emphasizing that any political affiliations should not provide immunity from accountability.

The ABVP’s demands are clear: immediate arrest of Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, a fair investigation, and adherence to legal processes without political interference. They believe that issues of women’s safety and justice transcend political considerations, and all parties must ensure accountability in such serious matters.