The Karnataka High Court has overturned Bengaluru North University’s order terminating the services of temporary guest lecturer R Manjunath, directing the university to reinstate him. Justice H.T. Narendra Prasad ruled that while the university is free to conduct a fresh inquiry, any such process must follow legal procedures.
Manjunath, who served as a guest lecturer in Journalism and Mass Communication since 2018–19, was reappointed in December 2024 for the academic year 2024–25 under specific conditions. However, he was dismissed soon after, based on 12 serious allegations, including claims of harassment of women employees. He was also barred from applying for the position for the next three years.
Challenging the decision, Manjunath argued that his termination was punitive and stigmatizing, yet no formal inquiry or notice was issued to him—violating principles of natural justice.
The university countered that Manjunath was a contractual employee who had been making baseless accusations, thereby harming the institution’s reputation. It maintained that reinstatement was not feasible even if the matter was reconsidered.
The court, however, highlighted that one of the allegations—his public criticism of the Deputy Commissioner and Higher Education Minister regarding inaction in the mine-affected Kolar district—was in public interest. Justice Prasad clarified that such speech is protected under Article 19(1) of the Constitution and does not constitute misconduct.
Of the remaining allegations, only two involved any form of notice—both issued without supporting evidence.