Education – Disparity in Harassment Complaints Raises Concerns in Universities
Education – A noticeable gap in the number of sexual harassment complaints reported by two major central universities—University of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University—between 2022 and 2025 has sparked renewed discussion about how effectively internal complaint mechanisms are functioning and how accessible they are to students.
Sharp Difference in Reported Cases
Data obtained through a Right to Information request shows that the University of Delhi (DU) registered only six complaints between 2023 and 2025. Of these, two cases were recorded during 2023–24, while four were reported in 2024–25. According to the university, actions taken included expulsion in one instance, denial of admission in another, along with measures such as written apologies, gender sensitisation initiatives, and one case resulting in acquittal. One complaint was withdrawn, and there are currently no pending cases.
In contrast, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) reported significantly higher numbers during the same period. The institution recorded 30 complaints in 2022–23, 15 in 2023–24, and 26 in 2024–25. Historical data further indicates that from 2017 to late 2024, a total of 151 complaints were filed, with the highest number—63 cases—registered in 2018–19.
Reporting Culture and Institutional Trust
While the numbers might initially suggest a higher incidence of harassment at JNU, faculty members and student representatives point to deeper factors such as awareness levels, reporting culture, and confidence in institutional mechanisms.
Abha Dev Habib, a professor at Miranda House, highlighted concerns about limited awareness among students at DU. She noted that many students are unfamiliar with the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and its role. According to her, there is a need to strengthen information outreach and encourage students to openly discuss such issues among peers. She also stressed that elected student representatives within the ICC should take a more proactive role in spreading awareness.
Structural Concerns at JNU
At JNU, the discussion extends beyond awareness to include concerns about institutional changes. The current Internal Complaints Committee was established in 2017 after the dissolution of the Gender Sensitisation Committee Against Sexual Harassment (GSCASH), which had been in place since 1999.
Surajit Mazumdar, president of the JNU Teachers Association, pointed out that the earlier system encouraged active engagement and reporting. He observed that after the transition to the ICC model, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of cases pursued and resolved, along with a reduced administrative role in addressing complaints.
Findings from University Report
The State of the University Report 2024 also raised questions about the functioning of the ICC at JNU. The report highlighted a drop in reported cases despite growing concerns among students regarding campus safety. It further pointed to procedural shortcomings and a lack of accountability within the current system.
According to the report, the shift from GSCASH to ICC was carried out in line with regulatory requirements, but the new structure has reportedly struggled to meet even basic standards expected of such bodies.
Student Perspectives and Barriers
Student representatives have also voiced concerns about the challenges faced by survivors in reporting incidents. Aditi, president of the JNU Students’ Union, stated that the absence of adequate support systems discourages many individuals from coming forward. She emphasized that fear of social stigma and judgment often prevents survivors from filing complaints.
She also remarked on the situation at DU, noting that many students there are unaware of where or how to report such incidents, further contributing to the low number of complaints.
Need for Strengthening Mechanisms
The contrast between the two universities highlights the importance of not only having formal mechanisms in place but also ensuring that they are accessible, transparent, and trusted by students. Experts suggest that improving awareness campaigns, strengthening institutional accountability, and fostering a supportive environment are essential steps toward addressing the issue effectively.