Protests have erupted at Rukmini Devi College of Fine Arts (RDCFA) at Kalakshetra, India’s premier cultural institution, after allegations of sexual abuse and harassment surfaced against an assistant professor and three repertory artists. Students and some faculty members demanded the removal of all four individuals. Earlier this week, the complaints were dismissed as rumors, and students were told not to spread gossip. The accused are set to perform at a dance festival in Hyderabad on Friday.
After the allegations were made, the National Commission for Women (NCW) investigated the matter but closed it on March 25 after a victim denied sexual harassment. However, many other complaints still remain. On March 29, NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma visited the campus for further inquiry.
After protests, the institute’s principal issued a circular to shut down the campus until April 6, and the ongoing exams were postponed. However, the order to vacate the hostel was withdrawn after police arrived on the campus and met Kalakshetra director Revathy Ramachandran. Ramachandran, who is also head of the ICC, which is being called a conflict of interest by many, including Bharatanatyam exponent Anita Ratnam, held talks with student representatives and verbally agreed to rusticate the four members but did not issue a formal order on the same.
Founded by Rukmini Devi Arundale in 1936, Kalakshetra is one of the most prestigious art institutions under the Union Culture Ministry. Ratnam, an alumna of Kalakshetra, said, “These students must be heard. Something like this has never happened in the history of this institution.”
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