DU students’ union leader slaps professor, sparks campus outrage

In a shocking escalation of campus politics, Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) Joint Secretary Deepika Jha allegedly slapped Professor Sujit Kumar, convener of the disciplinary committee at Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar College, inside the Principal’s office on October 16 afternoon.

The incident has triggered widespread condemnation and calls for a university-level inquiry.

Professor Kumar resigned from the committee following the assault, while faculty members and student groups demanded immediate action against what they called “mobocracy and hooliganism.” Around 50 students, reportedly led by DUSU President Aryan Maan, allegedly entered the college, harassed teachers, and demanded the professor’s resignation. CCTV footage of the incident is believed to exist.

Jha later issued a statement apologizing “to the entire teaching community” but claimed that the professor had misbehaved with her. She alleged that Professor Kumar came to the college in an inebriated state, threatened her, and made indecent remarks, prompting her reaction. “My intention was not to hurt the sentiments of the teaching community, but I am concerned about the safety of female students on the campus,” she said.

Professor Kumar rejected the claims, stating that his actions were strictly disciplinary and aimed at curbing misbehavior by an ABVP candidate toward an NSUI candidate. “I have been teaching here for 30 years, and nothing like this has ever happened,” he said. “Action needs to be taken against such students who misbehave with teachers, or it will become very difficult to teach.”

The NSUI condemned the incident as “ABVP-led DUSU hooliganism,” highlighting the presence of Delhi Police officers during the assault and alleging political interference. NSUI National President Varun Choudhary demanded the immediate arrest of Jha, Maan, and other participants, warning that the act is “not just an attack on a professor but on the dignity of the entire academic fraternity.”

The Delhi Police confirmed receipt of a complaint and said an inquiry is underway. The university administration is under mounting pressure to act decisively as campus political tensions continue to escalate.