Delhi High Court orders fresh sexual harassment inquiry at Kalindi College

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea filed by two associate professors of Delhi University’s Kalindi College regarding the constitution of a new Internal Committee. The professors had challenged the formation of the committee, citing apprehensions of bias following a July 2025 order by the University of Delhi Vice-Chancellor to set aside previous findings and initiate a fresh inquiry.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma ruled that the professors' concerns were not supported by sufficient evidence to establish a real likelihood of bias. The court also clarified that the statutory framework for sexual harassment complaints does not allow a Vice-Chancellor to constitute a separate university-level committee for complaints arising within a constituent college; instead, the inquiry must be handled by the college's Internal Committee.

Noting that the original complaint—which alleged harassment, intimidation, and derogatory remarks by four faculty members—had been pending for over 15 months, the court directed the newly formed committee to endeavor to complete the inquiry within 90 days. The proceedings must adhere to the PoSH Act, relevant rules, and UGC Regulations.