Discover the latest developments as the Madras High Court directs the expedited trial of Hari Padman, a former assistant professor facing allegations of sexual harassment. Get insights into the case’s origin, proceedings, and the court’s commitment to uphold justice and fairness.
Madras High Court’s Bold Stand Against Sexual Harassment Directive: Hastening Justice for Alleged Sexual Harassment Case Against Hari Padman
Chennai, 9 March 2024, 2:15 PM GMT
Madras High Court’s Urgent Call to Expedite Trial
The Madras High Court (MHC) has issued a directive to expedite the trial against Hari Padman, a former assistant professor at the Kalakshetra Foundation, embroiled in an alleged sexual harassment case. Presiding over the case, Justice N Anand Venkatesh instructed the lower court to conclude the trial within four months. Additionally, the court warned against any dilatory tactics and mandated that the trial be conducted on a day-to-day basis, aligning with the guidelines established by the Supreme Court in the Vinod Kumar vs State of Punjab (2015) case.
Unveiling the Case’s Origin
The proceedings stem from a tumultuous event on March 30, 2023, when students protested against alleged sexual harassment involving faculty members, including Hari Padman. Subsequently, a former student filed a complaint against Padman, prompting the Adyar police to register a case under sections 354 (A) and 509 of the IPC, along with Section 4 of the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, 2002.
Scrutiny of Case Materials and Proceedings
During the court’s review of the case materials, Justice Venkatesh noted Padman’s teaching style and student interactions, emphasizing a need for comprehensive examination. Despite Padman’s plea to quash the criminal case, the judge expressed reluctance to intervene in the proceedings before the Saidapet Metropolitan Magistrate Court, where the case has been pending since July 2023.
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Upholding Justice and Fairness
In adherence to the principles of justice and expediency, the Madras High Court Bold Stand Against Sexual Harassment directive underscores a commitment to address allegations of sexual harassment promptly and ensure fair trial proceedings for all parties involved.
