In the wake of an alleged sexual assault on its campus, the Indian Institute of Management-Calcutta (IIM-C) is actively engaging with students and taking steps to address their concerns. The incident, involving a female non-student and a male student from the institute, has prompted swift action from the administration, including cooperation with law enforcement and internal reviews of safety protocols.
Following the lodging of a First Information Report (FIR) by the woman, the accused student was promptly arrested and remanded to police custody until July 19th. IIM-Calcutta has made it clear that it is fully cooperating with the authorities in the ongoing investigation.
IIM-Calcutta Director-in-Charge Saibal Chattopadhyay has emphasized the institute's commitment to student safety and well-being. He has instructed his team to take all necessary measures to address the situation and allay the "natural" apprehension among parents, acknowledging that this is an unprecedented event for the institution. Chattopadhyay is scheduled to address students on campus to reaffirm the institute's commitment to their safety.
The institute has also issued a formal statement affirming its zero-tolerance policy for such incidents and its dedication to maintaining a safe and respectful campus environment. IIM-C is urging everyone to avoid speculation and the spread of unverified information that could hinder the investigation. The institute has stated that it is committed to ensuring that due process is followed while safeguarding the dignity, safety, and privacy of all individuals involved.
While the details of specific measures being undertaken are not being disclosed due to the sensitivity of the matter and ongoing legal proceedings, IIM-Calcutta has confirmed that it is constantly engaging with its students internally to ensure their safety and well-being.
The alleged incident occurred inside a hostel room, where the woman, a psychologist, stated she was called for a counseling session. She alleges that after consuming a drink, she became unconscious and upon regaining consciousness, realized she had been raped.
The incident has raised concerns about safety and security on the campus, despite existing security measures. The Lake View Hostel, where the alleged rape occurred, has CCTV cameras on one wing, but the two floors housing female students in the other wing lack such surveillance. The administration is aware of the serious complaint and is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.
IIM-Calcutta has a stated policy of equal opportunity and inclusion, with an Equal Opportunity Cell to address related issues, including those pertaining to students with disabilities. The institute provides various support measures, such as sensitization workshops, accessible course materials, additional exam time and provision of writers/scribes during exams. The institute also has a buddy system, pairing first and second-year students to foster an inclusive environment.