GUWAHATI: IIT-Guwahati has reinstated PhD research scholar Vikrant Singh following a recent ruling by the Gauhati High Court, which found his dismissal in 2021 to be arbitrary.
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The institute, in its latest communication, confirmed that Vikrant has been re-enrolled in the PhD programme under the Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering with immediate effect.
Vikrant was earlier expelled on charges of defaming the institution and its officials through social media and official correspondence. At the time, IIT-G claimed his actions disrupted the academic atmosphere. The termination letter dated June 25, 2021, had described his conduct as an "offence of the highest order".
However, the high court observed that due process had not been followed and that Vikrant had not been given a chance to respond to the allegations. The court directed the institute to reinstate him, subject to specific conditions.
As per the court’s directions, Vikrant must now provide a written undertaking to maintain discipline, adhere to institutional guidelines, and avoid any actions that may disturb the academic environment. IIT-G has also been permitted to initiate fresh disciplinary proceedings, ensuring that these comply with the principles of natural justice.
Vikrant has also been asked to submit a progress report and present his research work to his doctoral committee and the Department Postgraduate Programme Committee. For accommodation, the institute has advised him to approach the Hostel Affairs Board after completing his registration.
Vikrant had previously raised allegations of institutional irregularities, including the alleged misuse of funds by institute officials. He, along with another scholar, also protested the suspension of his PhD supervisor, Brajesh Rai, by organising a hunger strike and candle march.
