MUMBAI: At least ten students from St. Xavier’s College have lodged formal complaints with the institution’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), alleging inappropriate conduct by a guest speaker who had been invited for a national seminar earlier this week. The individual, who was staying on the college campus, is accused of taking photographs of female students without permission and behaving in a manner the complainants described as uncomfortable and intrusive.
The college administration acted immediately, asking the speaker to leave the campus the same day the allegations surfaced—even though he was scheduled to deliver a session the following day. While a police complaint (FIR) has not yet been filed, the Azad Maidan Police Station has been informed, and the college has also notified the speaker’s parent university.
Complaints filed with ICC after alleged misconduct
According to college authorities, the incident occurred on Monday during the preparations for the seminar. Several female students reported feeling uneasy due to the guest speaker’s conduct. They alleged that he clicked their photographs without seeking consent and passed close to them in a way that made them uncomfortable.
The ICC, which is the statutory body responsible for addressing such complaints within educational institutions, received a consolidated written complaint from the students on Friday. The college has confirmed that a detailed inquiry will now be undertaken to verify the accounts and gather evidence.
College emphasises zero-tolerance policy
Principal Karuna Gokarn stated that the college responded with urgency the moment the matter came to the attention of the administration. “Following a preliminary inquiry, the guest speaker was asked to leave that same day,” she said. “St. Xavier’s College follows a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of harassment. The safety and dignity of our students are of utmost importance.”
She added that the institution had communicated the allegations to the speaker’s home university and that the findings of the ICC investigation would also be shared.
Police informed; FIR yet to be registered
Even though the students have not yet filed an FIR, the Azad Maidan police have been notified as part of procedural transparency. According to officials, the police may interact with the students depending on the findings of the ICC and whether the complainants wish to pursue a formal criminal case.
Legal experts note that internal inquiries play a crucial role in determining the immediate measures an institution must take, but criminal proceedings require the complainants to register an FIR if they wish to seek penal action.
College to strengthen background checks for external speakers
In light of the incident, the college administration has decided to tighten its vetting procedures for all external invitees. The principal confirmed that henceforth, background checks for speakers, facilitators, and collaborators from outside the institution would be enhanced to ensure maximum safety for students.
The national seminar, which had been scheduled to bring together academics, researchers, and students from across the country, continued as planned, but with revised arrangements after the departure of the guest speaker.
Students express relief after swift action
Many students, while shocked by the incident, have reportedly expressed relief that the administration acted promptly. A faculty member said that the college has historically taken student grievances seriously and that swift action helps maintain trust and ensures students continue to feel safe on campus.
Several students noted that the presence of a robust ICC system gave them confidence to come forward. Some also mentioned that the solidarity among the complainants encouraged others to report their discomfort.
ICC to conduct full investigation
The Internal Complaints Committee will now interview the complainants, witnesses, and faculty members who may have interacted with the guest speaker during his brief stay on campus. CCTV footage, event registration logs, and hostel stay records may also be reviewed as part of the inquiry.
The ICC’s findings will be compiled into a formal report, which will not only be shared with the parent university but also retained as part of institutional records for any future reference.
Conclusion
The incident has prompted one of Mumbai’s most reputed educational institutions to revisit its protocols and re-emphasise the significance of campus safety. While the investigation continues, St. Xavier’s College has assured students and parents that preventive measures will be strengthened and that the administration will provide all necessary support, including cooperating fully with any potential police inquiry.