Delhi High HC restrains DU from taking any action against DUTA president

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Tuesday restrained Delhi University from taking any action against DUTA president and St Stephen's college professor Nandita Narain, who sought a stay on the move to initiate inquiry proceedings against her for allegedly interfering in the functioning of three colleges.

Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw also issued notice to the DU, Vice Chancellor Dinesh Singh, St Stephen's principal Valson Thampu and three colleges on the plea which contended that "arbitrary and illegal" inquiry proceedings have been initiated against Narain by the university at the behest of others as she has been a vocal critic.

"The matter requires consideration. Issues notice to all the respondents. Counter affidavit be filed before the next date of hearing on October 29," the court said.

Observing that it wants to know what is the power of the university over the colleges, the court said that till next date of hearing the respondents shall "stay their hands".

"No further action till next date of hearing in pursuance to the fact finding committee," the judge added.

Narain, who was to appear before a fact-finding committee constituted by the university to examine complaints against her, kept away from the meeting and moved the court yesterday.

She has been at loggerheads with Singh and Thampu and leading a campaign demanding their removal from office over allegations of financial and administrative irregularities.