UoH says it would consider Students' Union's demands

After a research scholar at the University of Hyderabad (UoH) slit his wrist last week, the varsity today said a representation submitted by the Students' Union will be considered for appropriate action.

Moses Abraham, research scholar at Advanced Centre for Research in High Energy Materials, cut his wrist in the office of his supervisor G Vaitheeswaran on November 18.

Vaitheeswaran and students from adjacent laboratory rushed Moses to the UoH Health Centre from where he was shifted to a private hospital and discharged after treatment.

The Students' Union at UoH claimed it was a suicide attempt and alleged institutional discrimination and "harassment" by the research supervisor.
 

In a representation, it demanded thorough inquiry in the incident, implementation of Thorat committee's recommendations and proper functioning of anti-discrimination cell.

Dean of Students' Welfare Prof Prakash Babu subsequently met Moses. Moses informed Babu that he was preparing for his examination today (November 21), said the UoH in a release.

"He (Moses) was also advised to meet the Vice Chancellor P Appa Rao after his examination to explain any difficulties he may be facing. Moses has agreed to meet after his exam. Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Vipin Srivastava has also spoken to Moses and advised him to meet after his examinations are completed," the university said.

"The Students' Union has submitted a representation which will be considered for appropriate action", it added.

The VC, in the meanwhile, asked for everyone's cooperation to find better solution for such matters.

In a related development, the Ambedkar Students' Association demanded action against Vaitheeswaran.

In a letter to UoH Registrar, ASA demanded implementation of anti-caste policy and programs, counselling of university community including faculty members and administration against caste-based discrimination and appointment of SC/ST/OBC representatives to monitor the work in the science labs."

Abraham attempted suicide due to humiliation by his supervisor, it said.