Manipur Lok Sabha MP and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam has strongly denied sexual harassment allegations reportedly made against him by 11 women students of the university, describing media reports on the matter as “unverified, intentional, unethical and illegal.”
Speaking during a visit to Dhanamanjuri University on September 13, Akoijam said the issue would be addressed through legal channels and expressed confidence that the truth would emerge through due process. Criticising what he termed a “media trial,” he argued that such reporting is widely condemned even in cases involving formally registered complaints.
The controversy centres on reports claiming that 11 women students submitted complaints against Akoijam to JNU’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in May. The allegations are reportedly linked to viva examinations conducted earlier that month and include claims of inappropriate and sexually suggestive remarks, as well as allegations that academic benefits were offered in exchange for sexual favours.
The allegations remain unproven and are reportedly under review by the university’s internal mechanism.
The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has questioned the delay in the inquiry and demanded that the matter be resolved through a transparent and time-bound process. The student organisation has argued that institutional procedures should apply equally regardless of the accused person’s political status and has sought clarity on the progress of the investigation.
Rejecting the allegations, Akoijam said a deliberate attempt was being made to damage his reputation through unverified claims and misinformation. He alleged that “racist schemers” were behind what he described as a malicious smear campaign and said his legal team had already initiated appropriate legal action.
“I have nothing to hide, and I do not need character certificates from these racists,” Akoijam said, adding that he would challenge the allegations and related reports through lawful means.
The issue has also acquired a political dimension. Congress leaders and supporters have alleged that sections of what they term “Godi Media” are targeting Dr. Bimol Akoijam ahead of the 2027 Manipur Assembly elections. They have claimed that several social media accounts amplifying the allegations are linked to supporters of pro-government media platforms and are attempting to shape public opinion through unverified narratives.
Supporters of Akoijam have urged the public not to treat unverified allegations or social media campaigns as established facts. They have called for careful scrutiny of sources, verification of evidence and restraint from drawing conclusions before the completion of the official inquiry.
As of now, no findings have been announced by the competent authorities. The allegations remain under investigation, and the final outcome will depend on the findings of JNU’s Internal Complaints Committee and any subsequent legal proceedings.
