The Delhi Manipuri Academic Fraternity (DMAF) has expressed concern over the public circulation and discussion of information relating to an alleged sexual harassment case reportedly under examination by the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
In a statement, DMAF referred to Section 16 of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, and Section 8(8) of the University Grants Commission (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment of Women Employees and Students in Higher Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2015, which provide for confidentiality concerning such complaints and the identities of the parties involved.
DMAF said the circulation of selective or unverified reports, speculation and public commentary while the matter is reportedly under inquiry could undermine a fair and impartial institutional process.
The organisation also expressed concern over discussions and disclosure of information through electronic media, print media, WhatsApp and other social media platforms. It said such practices could affect the privacy, safety and dignity of the complainant, while also affecting the rights and reputation of the person accused before the ICC reaches any finding.
DMAF maintained that the ICC, as the competent institutional mechanism, should be allowed to examine the allegations, assess the evidence and arrive at its findings in accordance with established procedures.
It urged the media, social media users and all other concerned parties to exercise restraint and refrain from speculation, dissemination of misinformation and personal vilification while the inquiry is ongoing.
The fraternity clarified that its statement was not intended to interfere with, influence or prejudge the ICC proceedings. It said DMAF was not taking any position on the merits of the allegations or the eventual outcome of the case.
According to DMAF, its concern was limited to ensuring that an ongoing institutional process was not undermined by public commentary or media scrutiny in a manner that could affect due process and fairness.
DMAF reiterated its support for due process, fairness, institutional integrity and respect for the dignity of all individuals involved. It appealed to all concerned to allow the competent university mechanism to carry out its responsibilities independently and without prejudice, and said that facts, evidence and due process should determine the outcome.
