Slapping row: Delhi University forms probe panel for BR Ambedkar College incident; teachers stage protest

The Delhi University has constituted a six-member inquiry committee, chaired by Prof Neeta Sehgal, to investigate a slapping incident at BR Ambedkar College on Thursday. Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) joint secretary Deepika Jha had allegedly slapped a professor during an argument on campus.

The committee has been asked to conduct a thorough probe into the matter, examining the circumstances that led to the altercation, and recommending suitable disciplinary action. The university administration said it was taking the matter very seriously and has assured that the investigation would be completed at the earliest.

DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Yogesh Singh has directed the committee to submit its report within two weeks. The inquiry committee comprises Prof Neeta Sehgal as its chairperson, and Prof Jyoti Trehan Sharma, DU's Joint Proctor, as its member secretary. They are also joined by Professor Rama, Principal of Hansraj College, Prof Swati Diwakar (Environmental Studies), Prof Darvinder Kumar, Principal of PGDAV College, and Awadhesh Kumar, Joint Proctor, who have been included as  members.

Meanwhile, the Delhi University Teacher's Association (DUTA) on Friday staged a protest outside Gate No. 1 of the North Campus, demanding justice and strict action against those involved. Hundreds of teachers joined the demonstration, calling the assault “an attack on the dignity and safety of the teaching community”.

DUTA representatives condemned the incident and said that such acts of violence cannot be tolerated in an academic space. “Teachers deserve respect and security in the workplace. The university must set a strong precedent by taking immediate and transparent action,” said a DUTA member at the protest site.

The association has also urged the university to ensure that campuses remain spaces of learning and mutual respect. The inquiry committee is expected to submit its findings soon.