A storm of controversy has swept through Assam University in Silchar, as students from the Department of Social Work have lodged a formal complaint against Assistant Professor Ajit Kumar Jena, accusing him of sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and criminal intimidation. The allegations has been detailed in a First Information Report (FIR) filed at the Assam University Police Outpost on May 4, 2025.
The students’ complaint paints a disturbing picture of repeated misconduct by Professor Jena, who is alleged to have exploited his position to manipulate and intimidate those under his authority. According to the FIR, Jena targeted female students with sexually explicit and derogatory remarks, creating an environment of fear and distress. The students claim he coerced them into meeting him at isolated locations, such as restaurants and private cabins, often late at night, where he reportedly used offensive and abusive language. These encounters, the complainants say, were not only inappropriate but deeply traumatic, leaving students emotionally scarred.
Beyond sexual harassment, the accusations against Jena include threats of academic retaliation, such as detention or poor grades, to silence students and enforce compliance. The FIR also alleges that Jena defamed both students and faculty members, spreading false and damaging claims about their personal lives. In some instances, he is said to have pressured students to make false statements in his favor, further abusing his authority to protect himself. “The professor’s actions have caused immense mental anguish,” one student, who requested anonymity, shared with this newspaper. “We couldn’t stay silent any longer.”
The students have come prepared to back their claims with evidence. They have informed authorities that they possess mobile phone recordings, call logs, screenshots, and witness testimonies to substantiate their allegations. “We want justice,” another complainant stated firmly. “No one should have to endure this kind of behavior, especially not in a place meant for learning and growth.”
The Officer-in-Charge at the Assam University Police Outpost has officially acknowledged the complaint, and the students are pressing for an immediate FIR to be registered against Jena. While no formal charges have been filed as of now, the police have assured the public that the matter is being taken seriously. “We are reviewing the complaint and the evidence provided,” a police official said. “Appropriate action will follow once the preliminary investigation is complete.”
The university administration, however, has remained tight-lipped. As of May 5, 2025, neither Professor Jena nor Assam University officials have issued a public statement addressing the allegations. Sources within the university indicate that a preliminary investigation has been launched, but details remain scarce.
