Kashmir varsity removes associate professor after students protest over ‘be my date’ remarks

In a recent incident at Central University of Kashmir (CUK) in Ganderbal district, an Associate Professor named Dr. Chinnappan Bhaskar was dismissed from his official positions following allegations of making "lewd remarks against female students." This decision came after scores of female students gathered on the campus on October 1, 2026, to protest the professor's behavior.

The professor allegedly crossed the line when he made comments about the physical appearance of a female student, asking her to be his date. He also threatened her with consequences if she filed a complaint. One protesting student stated, "The professor has been passing lewd remarks against female students in the classroom, and this week he went too far."

CUK registrar Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir confirmed that the accused has been relieved of all departmental and official assignments immediately, including his role as Head of the Department of Chemistry. Dr. Mir emphasized that if sexual harassment is proven, appropriate action will be taken. The professor, Dr. Chinnappan Bhaskar, has been identified as the individual in question.

As a temporary measure, the university has appointed Dr. Prashant Kumar Gupta, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, to coordinate the department until further notice. The university has set up two inquiries to investigate the matter: one by the Internal Committee and another by a special inquiry committee, both as per the Vice Chancellor's orders. The students have been instructed to report any instances of harassment to the Internal Committee.

CUK authorities have requested the students to testify during the Internal Committee proceedings if they experience any form of harassment. All comments regarding this incident must be in English, written as full sentences, and adhere to the institution's community guidelines, avoiding abusive or personal language.