Fast-track Probe Demanded for Arrested NEHU Official Over Alleged Improper Advances at Woman Football Referee
The NEHU Teachers’ Association (NEHUTA) has called for a swift investigation into the case of Nantu Das, the assistant sports director of the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong, who is currently in police custody. Das was arrested on charges of molesting a woman football referee.
NEHUTA president, Lakhon Kma, expressed the association’s stance that individuals like Das, who are accused of such misconduct, should not be allowed to return to their positions and further tarnish the environment. Kma emphasized the importance of following the due process, noting that any negligence in dealing with the matter would reflect poorly on NEHU’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Prabha Shankar Shukla.
Kma condemned Das’s alleged criminal acts, describing them as acts of molestation, abuse, and attempted rape. The association believes that Das may be a serial offender, as testimonies from other women participants have revealed a pattern of sexual misconduct at women’s sporting events.
NEHUTA highlighted the concerning environment of misogyny and lack of gender sensitivity within NEHU, a matrilineal setting. The association stressed the need for a concerted effort towards gender sensitization, prevention of sexual violence and misconduct, and the implementation of stricter measures to deter potential abusers.
Kma further expressed concerns about the university’s failure to prevent instances of abuse against women in the past, calling into question the safety of women on campus. NEHUTA urged the Vice Chancellor to hold sexual offenders accountable and ensure the safety of the university’s campuses.
Meanwhile, the NEHU Students’ Union (NEHUSU) reported receiving multiple complaints of sexual misconduct against Nantu Das. NEHUSU finance secretary, Mandor Diengdoh Swer, revealed that the accused had engaged in numerous instances of sexual misconduct, causing victims to fear disclosing their identities publicly.
Swer also raised concerns about the ineffectiveness of existing moral policing mechanisms, such as hostel curfews and evening security patrolling, which have failed to create a safe environment for students. He called for urgent gender sensitization efforts among students, faculty members, and staff to address the prevailing issues.
NEHUSU anticipates that more cases of sexual misconduct will come to light in the coming days as empowered students feel supported by the student community and the Union. The union aims to create an atmosphere of solidarity and support for victims.
With demands for a fast-tracked investigation and strong calls for gender sensitization, NEHU faces a crucial moment in its commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of its students and staff.
(Note: The generated response has not been proofread and may contain errors. Please verify the information and revise as necessary.)
