Kendrapada: Police have launched a manhunt for a college lecturer who allegedly molested a female student during a practical class in Jajpur district on Jan 6.
According to the complaint filed by the student, the incident occurred when she was alone during the practical class. The accused lecturer allegedly touched her inappropriately and molested her. Based on the complaint, police have registered cases under sections 74 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 75 (unwelcome sexual advances), and 351 (criminal intimidation) of BNS.
“During investigation, we discovered that the college principal attempted to discourage the student from filing a complaint and pressured her to withdraw it. Consequently, we have also filed a case against the principal,” said inspector Jyotimayee Sethi.
Police are conducting raids at various locations to apprehend the accused. On Tuesday, students and parents staged a road blockade outside the college demanding immediate arrest of the accused lecturer. Senior govt officials visited the site to address the protesters’ concerns. “We have heightened security around the college premises to prevent any untoward incidents,” Sethi added.