NEHUSU to form gender sensitization committee to take up cases of sexual violence

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 21, 2023

The North Eastern Hill University Students’ Union (NEHUSU) has decided to form a gender sensitization committee for taking up cases of sexual violence in the university.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, NEHUSU finance secretary Mandor Diengdoh said following the news that has come up in the public eye, there have been numerous cases that have come up against the accused person Nantu Das, in-charge of security & Asst Director of Sports Department Nehu with a complaint letter addressed to the NEHUSU.

He said whereas, on examination by the NEHUSU these followed up complaints have been found that the accused has been indulged in multiple instances of sexual misconduct where victims have been struck with fear in disclosing their identity to the Public eye.

Following the incident, he said there have also been reports by students, especially the Research Scholars, saying that their guides have been indulging in such shameful acts.

Stating that NEHUSU has received several other complaints of sexual misconduct from various students, Diengdoh said, “NEHUSU understands that there is desperate need for gender sensitization in the campus of the students, faculty and the staff.”

Asserting the need to sensitize the university community of consent, boundaries and what constitutes harassment, he said, “NEHUSU in this regard will, in the coming days, initiate the process of Gender Sensitization through workshops, seminars, lectures and most importantly the formation of Gender Sensitization committee which shall take up the cases of sexual violence, violation of consent and shall also take up various activities of sensitization.”

“More cases of sexual misconduct are bound to come up in the public domain in the coming days as the students are becoming more and more empowered due to the support and solidarity shown to them by the student community and the Union,” he said.

He further stated that the union’s commitment to realizing a gender just and a safe campus space is resolute and uncompromising.

“The present NEHUSU is committed to eradicate these shameful acts by any staff, administration officials or faculties towards any students.”