The Calcutta High Court has intervened in a dispute between the administrative leaders and faculty at Sagar Mahavidyalaya, a state-funded college, aiming to resolve allegations of professional misconduct and false student complaints. This decision was made following a petition from a student, prompting Justice Reetobroto Kumar Mitra to order a comprehensive investigation by the state.
During the proceedings, both parties presented accusations of institutional interference. In a ruling dated April 2, the High Court emphasized the importance of maintaining mutual respect and decorum among students and faculty, urging them to refrain from any inappropriate actions or behaviors.
The legal action was initiated by Debjoti Patra and fellow students, who contended that faculty members were guilty of misconduct and neglect, specifically by not adhering to established schedules and official directives. They further alleged that they faced threats and harassment from the teaching staff aimed at silencing their concerns.
On the other hand, the faculty members asserted that they were being unfairly targeted. They accused the principal of orchestrating the complaints, claiming that individuals presented as complainants were not actual students during the relevant times. The teachers also alleged that the principal used falsified documents to support personal agendas.
Jagriti Rai writes for The Indian Express, where she explores the intersections of law, gender, and society. On a dedicated legal desk, she translates complex legal concepts into accessible narratives, investigating how changes in the judiciary and legislative landscape influence citizens’ awareness and experiences in their daily lives.
Her expertise includes a focus on socio-legal issues, emphasizing the impact of legal developments on gender rights, marginalized groups, and personal freedoms. With over four years of experience in both digital and traditional media, Jagriti has honed a versatile reporting style, having previously worked with prominent platforms like The Lallantop and Dainik Bhaskar, which provided her with a nuanced understanding of the information needs of a diverse Indian audience.
Jagriti holds a Post-Graduate degree in Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), India’s leading media training institution, and a Master of Arts in Ancient History from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), equipping her with the historical and cultural insights necessary for analyzing enduring social dynamics and legal changes.
