The incident at Baba Saheb Ambedkar University involving 13 female students abused by Assistant Professor Salim Sheikh in Delhi’s Rohini is not an isolated occurrence. Similar incidents have been reported across India, involving professors and lecturers of a particular community in institutes of higher education. These cases of sexual harassment highlight the abuse of power dynamics, leading to emotional distress and academic harm for students. This report presents seven instances of sexual harassment by Muslim professors in universities.

Instance 1 – Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College, Delhi 

Allegations of physical abuse and sexual harassment by Assistant Professor Saleem Sheikh at Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College in Delhi have sparked protests and public outrage. Thirteen Hindu female MBBS students have accused Sheikh, prompting demands for his removal and swift action from authorities. Protesters, organized by Mahila Nyay Smiti, gathered outside the college, demanding justice for the victims and Sheikh’s immediate dismissal. Despite complaints filed on February 22nd, protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the authorities’ response, urging action to prevent the college from resembling “Sandeshkhali.” The National Commission for Women has intervened, calling for an investigation under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013. An FIR has been filed with charges under Section 354 (A) (sexual harassment) of the IPC and Section 354 (A) IPC.

Instance 2 – Central University of Kerala

Assistant Professor Efthikar Ahamed B from Central University of Kerala faces charges of sexual harassment by first-semester MA English students. Bekal Police in December 2023 charged him with three counts, including using criminal force intending to outrage modesty. The incident allegedly occurred on November 13, supported by the medical officer’s statement. Ahamed denied the allegations, attributing them to politics and personal grudges. Amidst external member resignations from the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), the university suspended Ahamed based on the interim report. 

Instance 3 – Aligarh Muslim University

In May 2023, a research scholar at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) accused her professor, Afifullah Khan of molestation and harassment, prompting a case under IPC section 354. Allegations included indecent comments and advances, with claims of thesis dismissal and immoral proposals. The complainant appealed to the university administration for action, citing the professor’s purported powerful position. AMU proctor confirmed the FIR and referred the matter to the Internal Complaint Committee. The scholar previously sought help online from the chief minister and reported to state authorities. 

Instance 4 – Madurai Medical College (MMC)

On May 19, 2023, Madurai Medical College suspended Assistant Professor Syed Tahir Hussain for sexual harassment allegations filed by 23 women, including professors, nurses, and students. Vishakha Committee’s investigation confirmed the validity of the complaints, revealing misconduct towards patients and offensive behavior in surgeries. Victims accused Hussain of inappropriate touching, forcing mask removal in operation theatres, and making derogatory remarks about their appearance. Media reports suggest up to 41 victims, with ongoing harassment despite the May 6 complaint. 

Instance 5 – Jamia Milia Islamia

Jamia Millia Islamia suspended Assistant Professor Abid Hussain in February 2023 from the Psychology Department following sexual harassment accusations by seven faculty members. An office memorandum cited aggressive behavior, verbal abuse, and obstruction of departmental functioning. Allegations include physical and sexual assault on the department head during a meeting. The university vice-chancellor invoked Statute 37 (1) for immediate suspension pending disciplinary proceedings. 

Instance 6 – Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)

In 2014, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) professor Bilal Mustafa faced charges under IPC section 354A(i)(iv) for sexual remarks and advances towards an Iranian girl research scholar. Initially acquitted, Mustafa was sentenced to one year’s rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹10,000 by Aligarh’s additional district judge. The court criticized AMU’s internal inquiry’s clean chit, highlighting the tarnish to India’s international image. AMU’s proctor refrained from commenting on the verdict, suggesting a review of university rules before deciding on further action. Mustafa was granted bail on a personal bond of ₹25,000 and two sureties.

Instance 7 – Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)

In March 2006, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) suspended faculty member Shareef Ahmad from the Department of Sanskrit on charges of sexually harassing a postgraduate student. The student lodged a written complaint to the university’s Vice-Chancellor, alleging lewd advances made by Ahmad in his room. University’s Women’s Cell conducted an inquiry, prompting action against Ahmad.