Bengaluru: A controversy at a private medical college in Bengaluru Rural district escalated into a tense situation after an alleged classroom proposal by a professor led to protests and physical confrontation involving students.
The incident occurred at the Sri Siddhartha Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre in T. Begur near Nelamangala on Wednesday. Videos recorded by students and circulated on social media brought the episode to public attention.
Alleged proposal triggers confrontation
According to initial reports, a professor identified as Mohammed allegedly made a proposal to a student during a classroom session. In videos that have since gone viral, the professor is seen addressing students and claiming that a girl from the class had proposed to him and that he reciprocated those feelings.
He is also seen distributing chocolates to students, reportedly to mark the occasion. The act, however, did not go down well with the student concerned.
The student immediately objected and questioned the professor’s claims, asking him to raise the matter formally with the college principal. She reportedly denied ever making such a proposal and demanded proof when the professor claimed there was CCTV footage supporting his statement.
Situation escalates after classroom exchange
Following the exchange, the professor reportedly left the classroom, stating that he would address the matter the next day. However, tensions escalated soon after his exit.
What began as a verbal argument turned into a heated confrontation on campus. According to reports, the aggrieved student allegedly confronted the professor and struck him with her footwear, while other students joined in, shouting slogans and allegedly assaulting him.
The incident created a chaotic situation within the campus, raising concerns over discipline and safety in educational institutions.
Police yet to receive formal complaint
The matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Nelamangala Rural Police Station. A senior police official stated that no formal complaint has been filed by either the professor or the student so far.
Authorities indicated that action would depend on whether a complaint is lodged, though the viral videos may also be examined if required.
Concerns over conduct and campus safety
The incident has sparked debate over professional conduct within educational institutions, particularly regarding boundaries between faculty and students.
While the allegations against the professor are yet to be officially established, the situation has also raised concerns about how quickly tensions can escalate into violence on campuses.
Educational experts stress the importance of institutional mechanisms to address grievances, including internal committees and counselling systems, to prevent such incidents from spiralling out of control.
Conclusion
The Bengaluru classroom controversy highlights the need for maintaining professionalism, clear communication, and effective grievance redressal systems within academic institutions. With no formal complaint filed yet, the next course of action will depend on whether either party approaches the authorities.
Meanwhile, the incident continues to draw attention, both for the alleged misconduct and the subsequent escalation into violence, underscoring the importance of responsible behaviour on all sides.