PANAJI
The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has issued a notice to the Vice Chancellor of Goa University after taking suo motu cognisance of media reports alleging that male students were made to participate in an obscene parade during the university’s annual event held earlier this week. The varsity, on the other hand, has initiated an inquiry.
Reports highlighted that male students were paraded in their underwear while female students were allegedly restricted from leaving the event venue. Terming the incident as a potential violation of student rights, the Commission has sought an explanation from the university's top authority.
“Taking suo motu cognisance of the matter, which prima facie amounts to a violation of the human rights of the students, the Commission directs that a notice be issued to the Vice Chancellor, Goa University, Taleigao, to submit a report/reply on or before July 23 at 10:30 am,” stated the order issued by Acting Chairperson Desmond D’Costa and Member Pramod Kamat.
The Vice Chancellor has been directed to appear either in person or through a representative.
Meanwhile, the university has confirmed that an internal probe is already underway. “We have already initiated an inquiry into the matter after it was brought to our notice. An internal committee is investigating the incident,” said GU Public Relations Officer Shashikant Morajkar.
