Incident Surfaces on Bus Journey

Maihar police have registered an FIR against Alok Sinha, an Assistant Professor at Amarpatan PG College, after a woman passenger accused him of making obscene gestures on a bus. The incident occurred on Monday during travel from Satna to Ramnagar in Madhya Pradesh's Satna district.

The victim boarded the bus from Satna. Near Bhatnwara, Sinha allegedly occupied the seat beside her, initiated conversation and then resorted to objectionable gestures. The woman recorded the act on her mobile phone and lodged a complaint immediately upon reaching Amarpatan.

Victim Records Evidence, Files Complaint

According to reports, the accused first attempted to pressure the woman into a compromise. When she refused, he allegedly threatened to kill her before fleeing the scene. The victim handed over the video recording to police as key evidence.

She identified Sinha after he disclosed his name and profession while travelling. Upon alighting near the college, she inquired with other students on the bus, who confirmed his identity through photographs on their phones. This led to a named FIR at Amarpatan police station.

Police Action and Sections Invoked

Amarpatan police station in-charge Vijay Singh Paraste confirmed that a case was promptly registered under sections 74 and 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita based on the woman's complaint. Police have initiated a search for the accused, who remains absconding.

Accused's Background and Family Details

Alok Sinha, a resident of Delhi, has been posted at Amarpatan PG College since 2015. His wife lives in Delhi as a housewife, while their daughter, an engineer, has settled in Canada after marriage. Sinha reportedly lives alone in Maihar.

Prior Misconduct Allegations Surface

This is not the first time Sinha has faced complaints. Sources indicated he previously assaulted the acting principal of the college, Dr S.P. Singh, leading to another FIR at the same police station. The matter was reportedly forwarded to the Commissioner of the Higher Education Department.

Student Ruckus Over Misbehaviour Claims

Just a week earlier, female students at the college had accused Sinha of misbehaving and failing to submit sessional copies. The dispute escalated into a public altercation, forcing the principal to intervene. The issue was eventually resolved, but it highlighted ongoing concerns at the institution.

Impact on Campus and Public Safety

The case has sparked discussions on safety for women in public transport and accountability in educational institutions. Residents in Maihar and surrounding areas expressed concern over such incidents involving educators. Women's rights groups in Madhya Pradesh called for swift action to deter similar behaviour.

Local authorities noted that video evidence has strengthened the case, reflecting growing awareness among victims to document misconduct. The episode also raises questions about vetting processes for faculty in government colleges.

What Next in Investigation

Police are actively tracing Sinha and examining the video for further leads. Higher education officials may initiate a departmental probe parallel to the criminal case. The outcome could influence disciplinary measures against the professor, including possible suspension or termination.

The Amarpatan police have appealed to the public for any additional information that could assist in locating the accused. The woman has been provided necessary support, with authorities assuring a thorough and time-bound investigation.

This incident comes amid broader efforts in Madhya Pradesh to enhance women's safety in public spaces and ensure strict enforcement of laws against harassment. Updates on the case are being closely monitored as part of latest news today from the region.