Karnataka University professor suspended over ‘Islamophobic remarks’ against student during class; case lodged

A purported video of the incident went viral on Friday.

The Giri Nagar police, who had initially registered a non-cognisable report following a complaint by the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), registered a suo motu case against the professor on Saturday.

Head Constable Ravikumar T N lodged a complaint, leading to an FIR filed under sections 299 (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) and 352 (intentional insult to provoke a breach of peace) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

The complaint also raised serious concerns over the deletion of crucial CCTV footage, suggesting possible tampering with evidence. It is further alleged that several students who supported the victim were subsequently suspended on disciplinary grounds.

“There was an approach from the student, who later sought time. We will take action based on the complaint,” Lokesh B Jagalasar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Division), said earlier.

Lakshya Raj, the NSUI’s Bengaluru central district president, said the police have advised complainants to first approach the institution. “They have assured action if the response from the college is not adequate. This is an unfortunate incident and should not be repeated,” he said.

In a parallel development, the Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO), Karnataka chapter, condemned the incident, calling it a case of Islamophobia within an academic space. “Such conduct violates the principles of inclusivity and mutual respect expected in educational institutions,” state secretary Mohammed Hayyan said.

The organisation has demanded strict action, including termination of the professor and initiation of legal proceedings, and has urged the state government to put in place stronger safeguards against discrimination on campuses.