Sirsa varsity sacks prof after year-long inquiry

Chaudhary Devi Lal University (CDLU), Sirsa, has terminated the services of Assistant Professor (Contract) Ram Mehar Arya from the Department of Mass Communication, bringing an end to a year-long controversy marked by allegations, inquiries and court interventions.

Arya first came under scrutiny in October 2024 when he was accused of fabricating a letter alleging harassment of 500 female students by university officials. The letter triggered a police probe, but investigations found the charges baseless. Police later traced the letter back to Arya, with CCTV footage from a post office confirming his involvement.

Following this, CDLU initiated disciplinary proceedings citing misconduct and unsatisfactory work. The university issued a dismissal order on October 20, 2024, after Arya failed to appear before an inquiry committee despite being given multiple opportunities. His wife, Suman Arya, contested the decision, claiming he was unwell and under stress due to pending salaries. The family challenged the termination in the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

On December 4, 2024, the High Court stayed the termination, directing that Arya be allowed to continue his duties until a final decision. The court stressed that the principles of natural justice required a fair hearing. Later, on February 7, 2025, the university informed the court that it would withdraw the earlier termination order and issue a fresh one after granting Arya a personal hearing. The case was then disposed of.

After completing the due process, CDLU has now, through an office order dated September 3, 2025, terminated Arya’s services with immediate effect.

VC Professor Vijay Kumar said that, in line with the court’s directions, Arya had been given a full opportunity to present his case. However, the inquiry committee was not satisfied with his answers and upheld the allegations against him. Orders to terminate his services were accordingly issued. Attempts to contact Professor Arya for his response proved unsuccessful.