New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has granted an interim stay on the suspension of Professor Rasal Singh, Principal of Ramanujan College, who was suspended following sexual harassment allegations made by three women faculty members.
Justice Sachin Datta, who heard the matter, observed that Singh was not given an opportunity to be heard prior to his suspension—an essential procedural safeguard. The court emphasized that the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), and not any external body or official, holds the exclusive authority to recommend interim measures such as suspension in such cases.
“Considering that the allegations are to be inquired into by the ICC, the determination or recommendation of any interim action, including suspension, falls squarely within its jurisdiction,” Justice Datta noted. The court added that the suspension before the ICC’s examination of the allegations was “unwarranted” and appeared to undermine the ICC’s authority.
Accordingly, the court ordered an interim stay on the suspension order dated September 23, issued by the Chairperson of Ramanujan College, until the next hearing scheduled for October 15.
The High Court further instructed that the ICC should urgently consider the matter and decide if any interim measures—such as suspension or restrictions—are warranted against the petitioner, and also expedite the inquiry process.
Justice Datta also questioned the role of the committee formed by the Deputy Registrar of Colleges, observing that it was not the appropriate authority to handle such allegations. “Even the said committee did not explicitly recommend the suspension of the petitioner,” the court stated.
It was noted that the suspension was based solely on that committee’s report dated June 23, and no hearing was granted to Singh prior to the suspension—raising concerns of procedural fairness.
The court clarified that protective measures in favor of the complainants may still be issued by the ICC during the inquiry if needed.
Senior Advocate Geeta Luthra, appearing for Singh, argued that he had a distinguished academic record and unblemished service, and claimed that the allegations were part of a larger conspiracy driven by vested interests with personal motives.
The Delhi High Court has sought responses from the concerned parties before the next hearing on October 15.
