Professor Dr. Atul Verma Suspended Over Harassment Allegations in Amroha University

Amroha, Uttar Pradesh: A senior professor at Venkateshwara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS), 62-year-old Professor Dr. Atul Verma, has been suspended following serious allegations of sexual and mental harassment made by a 32-year-old lab in-charge. The complainant accused Dr. Verma of inappropriate behavior, including unwelcome physical contact and mental harassment.

Incident Details

She stated that Professor Dr. Atul Verma had proposed to her by saying, I like you, darling, and offered to cut a cake on the eve of New Year. She refused to give in, but he touched her improperly and tried to kiss her. According to the victim, it took place on the medical campus of the university. Hence, she filed a complaint.

Controversial Statement to Chancellor

According to the victim, Professor Dr. Atul Verma continued his advances despite her objections, sending her assistant away under the pretense of fetching tea. He then expressed his desire to hug and kiss her, even forcibly approaching her chair. As the news reached the chancellor of the university, Dr. Verma is said to have justified his conduct in the following words- “Is it a crime to like someone? What’s wrong with it?” A committee was formed and as a result, Dr. Verma was suspended.

Earlier Allegations

The victim reported that Dr. Verma had previously tried to enter her home without permission, sent obscene messages on social media, and followed her car very often to obtain her home address. She demanded strict action against him and his dismissal from the institution.

A case has been registered at Rajabpur Police Station. Station House Officer Prempal Singh confirmed that a case has been lodged under sections dealing with sexual harassment and other charges. He added that the case is under investigation and Dr. Verma may have to face up to seven years in prison if convicted.

She warned that if justice is not done, she would escalate her complaint to the Chief Minister’s portal, the Prime Minister’s portal, the National Commission for Women, and the Human Rights Commission. She asked the authorities to take stringent action to ensure such incidents do not recur in the future.

Institutional Response

The university administration assured cooperation with the investigation and restated its zero-tolerance policy against harassment, reaffirming its commitment to keeping a safe and respectful environment for all staff and students.