A symbiosis professor in Nagpur has been given leave for sending “inappropriate” messages to a former student

Nagpur symbiosis. File | Photo credit: scmsnagpur.edu.in

Symbiosis University has placed a professor from its Nagpur campus on forced leave following allegations that he sent inappropriate messages to a former student and asked her to follow Islamic religious practices, a senior official of the institution said on Monday (Oct 19, 2026).

Following protests over the matter by some right-wing organisations, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) said in a statement on Sunday that it had formed a high-powered committee to investigate the allegations and further action would be taken based on its findings.

According to sources, the professor has already submitted his resignation.

However, despite requests from the Nagpur city police, neither the student, who left the institution six months ago, nor her father filed a formal complaint or provided any evidence of the reports, officials said.

The allegations included sending inappropriate messages and encouraging the student to follow Islamic practices. However, the claim could not be verified due to the absence of a complaint or supporting evidence, a police official said.

The matter sparked protests by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, whose members demanded the removal of the professor and strict action against him.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Nityanand Jha said that around 11:30 am on Saturday, 15 to 17 persons representing various organizations gathered in the university premises. The police intervened and allowed a discussion between the protesters and university officials.

Later, the delegation met with the university management.

In a statement, the university said it took cognizance of the social media reports and the complaint and formed a high-powered committee to look into the allegations.

Further action will follow after the committee submits its report, the institution said, adding that it is committed to the safety and dignity of students and staff.

A senior police official said the former student’s family had raised the issue with right-wing groups but had not approached the police despite being asked to do so three times.

Police investigation revealed that the student left the institute six months ago.

Published – 19 Oct 2026 13:10 IST