Imphal: Congress MP from Inner Manipur Angomcha Bimol Akoijam has secured seven days of transit anticipatory bail from a local court, offering him temporary protection from arrest in connection with a sexual harassment case registered by Delhi Police on October 11.
The development comes days after Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) dismissed Akoijam from his position as an associate professor on October 9, following an internal inquiry into sexual harassment complaints lodged by 11 female students in May.
The FIR was registered at Vasant Kunj North police station through a complaint submitted by JNU’s Chief Security Officer. The case invokes provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to alleged acts intended to insult a woman’s modesty and unwelcome physical contact.
Akoijam has denied the allegations and described the university’s inquiry and his subsequent dismissal as a politically motivated campaign against him. He has alleged that the university failed to follow due process, claiming he was not provided with the final report of the inquiry committee before his dismissal. He has also disputed the university’s assertions regarding email communications and his cooperation with the panel.
The MP has linked the action against him to his criticism of the government’s handling of the ongoing crisis in Manipur. He has said he intends to challenge the matter legally and has vowed to resign from Parliament if he is found guilty.
The controversy triggered protests in Imphal on October 14, when a large group of citizens staged sit-ins and breached police barricades while attempting to march towards the BJP’s Manipur headquarters.
Demonstrators carried placards opposing what they described as the misuse of educational institutions and called for due process instead of trial by media. Some independent protesters, including Dr Tina Kumari, questioned the timing of the allegations and called for a judicial determination of the case. They also criticised the JNU vice-chancellor’s public comments on the matter.
After additional police personnel intervened and pushed protesters away from the BJP office, Akoijam addressed supporters at Keishamthong Keithel. He reiterated that he would cooperate with Delhi Police and appear for questioning as required.
The MP maintained that he would not be intimidated or apologise for what he described as systematic harassment. He also drew parallels between his legal battle and the historical grievances of the people of Manipur concerning custodial treatment.
The case is unfolding amid a wider debate over the allegations, the university’s disciplinary action and calls for due process. The allegations against Akoijam remain subject to legal proceedings.