The shocking allegations against Rajneesh Kumar, the chief proctor and head of the Geography Department at PC Bagla College in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, have ignited widespread public outrage and raised serious questions about the safety and accountability mechanisms in educational institutions. Kumar stands accused of sexually exploiting multiple female students over an alleged span of 20 years, using his position of power to manipulate, blackmail, and silence victims. The scandal came to light after several anonymous complaints were sent to the local police and the National Commission for Women (NCW), accompanied by photographs and videos that have since gone viral on social media, further fueling the anger and demands for justice.
The college administration acted swiftly, suspending Kumar from his position after the allegations surfaced. Dr. Mahavir Singh, the college’s principal, confirmed the suspension, acknowledging the gravity of the accusations. District authorities also stepped in, with the Uttar Pradesh Police registering a case against Kumar under multiple sections, including rape. A preliminary investigation led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) involved speaking directly to the students depicted in the photographs, and the findings were subsequently validated by the Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), who confirmed the authenticity of the evidence.
In response to the escalating backlash, the district magistrate established a four-member committee comprising the sub-divisional magistrate, deputy superintendent of police, tehsildar, and the district education officer. The committee has been instructed to conduct a thorough investigation and submit its findings within seven days. Legal proceedings are now underway, with law enforcement stating that they will pursue the case rigorously.
What makes this case particularly disturbing is the emerging narrative of systemic failure over the years. Reports claim that Kumar had previously faced an FIR related to similar accusations but was eventually acquitted. Allegedly, he would summon students to his office or residence, promising better grades and job placements in exchange for sexual favors. It is further alleged that he filmed compromising videos of these encounters, using them as leverage to ensure the victims’ silence. The fact that this pattern of abuse seemingly continued unchecked for two decades has sparked intense public condemnation.
Social media platforms are ablaze with outrage, with users expressing anger not only at Kumar but also at the college and local authorities for their failure to protect vulnerable students. Many are demanding that the administration provide transparency about the actions being taken. Comments on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) reflect this sentiment, with users calling for the harshest punishment possible. One user wrote, "If these allegations are true, then it is extremely shameful and reprehensible. Such incidents kept happening for 20 years, and the administration remained silent — this shows the failure of the system. Strict action should be taken against the culprits so that the safety of daughters can be ensured."
Another user voiced frustration with the educational system's inability to prevent such crimes, stating, "A person with such a bad and cruel mentality has no right to remain a teacher. The department and administration should tell the public what action they have taken in this matter till now because such an act can spoil the school as well as the society so that our young generation does not have a negative attitude towards education."
This case is rapidly becoming emblematic of a larger issue in India — the abuse of power by those in positions of authority within educational institutions. It highlights the vulnerability of students, particularly young women, who may feel powerless to resist exploitation due to fear of academic penalties, public shame, or threats of blackmail. The revelations also underscore the urgent need for reforms, ensuring stricter background checks, regular monitoring of staff behavior, and accessible, student-friendly reporting mechanisms.
The next steps in this case — particularly the outcome of the investigation, the court proceedings, and any administrative actions — will likely determine whether this incident serves as a turning point for institutional accountability in India’s education system. Beyond seeking justice for the survivors, the public outcry reflects a broader demand for cultural change: an end to the impunity that allows powerful figures to prey on the vulnerable under the guise of mentorship and authority. The message from the public is clear — this must not happen again, and those responsible must face the full force of the law.
