The Delhi High Court in a ruling upheld the termination of a faculty member accused of seeking bribes at Delhi University. Amid concerns for students’ welfare and academic fairness, the decision by Delhi High Court brings relief to many.
In an order passed on September 12, Justice Jasmeet Singh rejected the plea filed by Thelma J. Talloo, a former Reader in the Commerce Department at Jesus and Mary College (JMC), who had challenged a 2012 arbitral award delivered by the Appeals Committee of the DU regarding her termination.
The proceedings date back to 2008 when allegations surfaced that Dr. Talloo solicited cash, a cellphone, diamond earrings, and a saree from students for manipulating their academic records and attendance. The accused denied the charges, blaming personal vendetta and even questioned the authenticity of audio evidence presented by the students. She added that the students used to mock her during classes and when she reprimanded them, they accused her of bribery in exchange for academic favours to defame her. Additionally, she alleged that the college’s inquiry was biased and she was denied a fair defence and proper legal representation.
In response, the college and university formed an inquiry committee, followed by an appeals committee. Both committees, after conducting disciplinary proceedings, found her guilty of misconduct. However, while upholding the charges, the appeals committee reduced the penalty from dismissal to termination so she could still receive her retirement benefits.
Dr. Talloo challenged this decision through a petition in the Delhi High Court, contending procedural unfairness and disputing the incriminating evidence. However, Justice Jasmeet Singh dismissed her plea, affirming that the demand for illegal gratification struck at the very core of academic ethics and integrity,
In view of the matter, the proceedings were fair, the findings are supported by evidence and the penalty has already been tempered by leniency. Hence, under Section 34 of the Act, no ground for setting aside or further modification of the award is made out by the petitioner.”
The court’s decision sends a stern message emphasizing zero tolerance towards corruption in educational institutions. It is now incumbent upon educators, administrators, and society to ensure that merit and honesty define the path for future generations.
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Image Source – India Legal
Arshia Sharma
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