Pramesh S Jain
Four days after racisit slur incident at PES college,the Girinagar police on Saturday registered a suo motu case against the professor of PES University for making derogatory and communal remarks against a Muslim student during a classroom session on March 24.
Based on the complaint filed by,Head Constable Ravikumar T.N.,the police registered an FIR against the professor,charging him under section 299(deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage the religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or beliefs),352 (intentional insults designed to provoke a breach of peace),BNS for further investigation.
The accused,identified as Dr.Muralidhar Deshpande,is alleged to have repeatedly referred to a student,Affan,as a“terrorist”and made several offensive statements targeting his religion in front of nearly 60 students.
The remarks reportedly created a hostile and humiliating environment inside the classroom.
The complaint further alleges that crucial CCTV footage related to the incident was deleted,raising concerns over possible tampering of evidence.It is also claimed that some students who supported the victim were later suspended on disciplinary grounds.
In addition,the department head is accused of attempting to indirectly pressure the student,allegedly making statements suggesting institutional influence and advising him to consider his future.
Police have stated that the matter could potentially disturb communal harmony and hurt religious sentiments.
Based on the complaint,a case has been registered and an investigation has been initiated.
Earlier taking cognisance of the incident,NSUI City President along with the members went to Girinagar police and filed a complaint,seeking legal action against the professor .
