Stephen’s molestation: Victim ‘denied’ stipend, access to lab

St Stephen’s research scholar who was allegedly molested by a college professor, today alleged that she was denied payment of her stipend and access to the laboratory, a charge denied by the principal as “constructed controversy”.

The victim has also alleged that when she forcefully tried to enter the laboratory where she was conducting her research, she was locked by an attendant inside following which she had to call the police. While police officials confirmed of having received the call and visiting the campus but denied that the laboratory was found locked.

“Today when I went to the college to inquire about the release of my stipend, I was told by the concerned official in the college office that since Satish Kumar (her PhD supervisor) has not given his approval, the stipend could not be released,” the victim alleged.

“Further, when I tried to enter the laboratory the attendant refused to let me in after checking with Kumar over phone. I somehow forcefully entered but the attendant locked me from outside following which I called the police,” she added. She was accompanied by Devansh Mehta, the philosophy student who had taken the principal Valson Thampu to court after he had suspended him for publishing an e-zine without seeking clearance on its content.