St. Stephen’s Victim Denied Lab Access, College Alleges Vandalism

St. Stephen’s molestation victim says she was denied access to her lab and refused stipend.

St. Stephen’s molestation victim said she was denied access to the laboratory today.

However, college principal Thampu termed it “as a constructive controversy” and “vandalism attempt”.

Today when I went to the college to inquire about the release of my stipend, I was told by the concerned official in the college office that since Satish Kumar (her PhD supervisor) has not given his approval, the stipend could not be released.
— The victim

When she forcefully tried to enter the laboratory where she was conducting her research, she was locked by an attendant following which she had to call the police.

The college authority meanwhile has approached the police alleging vandalism and attempts to trespass the campus by students accompanying her.

While police officials confirmed of having received the call and visiting the campus but denied that the laboratory was found locked.

There has been a regrettable act of vandalism and trespass in the college premises. The Delhi police is currently investigating the matter.
— Karen Gabriel, Spokesperson, St. Stephen’s

She was accompanied by Devansh Mehta, the philosophy student who had taken principal Valson Thampu to court after he had suspended him for publishing an e-zine without seeking clearance on its content.

I had personally handed over the stipend cheque to her in December, the cheque in question today is for the next six months, which has not been issued as the documents need her PhD guide’s signature and he is not available as I had “advised” him not to visit the college.
— Valson Thampu, Principal, St. Stephen’s College