Nagpur, Oct 19, 2026 13:24 ISTSymbiosis International (Deemed University) has sent a professor from its Nagpur campus on compulsory leave over allegations that he sent inappropriate messages to a former female student and encouraged her to follow Islamic religious practices, news agency Press Trust of India reported, citing a senior university official.
The university has formed a high-powered committee to investigate the allegations following protests by some right-wing organisations. It stated that further action would be determined after the committee submits its findings, while sources indicated that the professor had already tendered his resignation.
Despite requests from the Nagpur city police, the former student—who departed from the institution six months ago—and her father have neither filed a formal police complaint nor produced any evidence of the messages. Law enforcement officials noted that the unverified allegations involved sending objectionable communications and encouraging religious practices, but the claims could not be independently substantiated without documentation or a formal grievance.
The controversy sparked demonstrations by members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, who assembled at the campus to demand the instructor's removal and strict disciplinary measures. Deputy Commissioner of Police Nityanand Jha reported that approximately 15 to 17 individuals from various groups gathered at the university around 11:30 am on Saturday, prompting police intervention to mediate discussions between the protesters and administration.
In an official statement released on Sunday, the university confirmed it initiated the inquiry committee after taking cognizance of social media reports and the grievance. The institution emphasized its dedication to safeguarding the security and dignity of both its students and staff members.
A senior police official reiterated that although the student's family brought the matter to the attention of right-wing groups, they declined to approach law enforcement authorities despite being urged to do so on three separate occasions. Preliminary police inquiries confirmed that the student had completed her ties with the institution half a year prior.