Scientists back JNU students’ protest against professor Johri

NEW DELHI: Around 150 scientists across the country have spoken up against the sexual harassment against women in scientific laboratories, noting that research in India, particularly its higher echelons, remains predominantly the preserve of men.

A statement, signed by 165 scientists, called upon Indian scientists to support those who have accused a professor at Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University's School of Life Sciences of sexual harassment. "We call upon Indian scientists, and women scientists in particular, to support the young complainants' quest for justice, and to further this effort to publicly acknowledge and spread awareness on this extremely serious issue," the letter read.

The scientists also emphasised that sexual misconduct should not only be condemned, it should also invite black-listing from serving on scientific committees, receiving funding, awards and election to academies. The petitioners include scientists from JNU as well as several leading institutes across the country such as the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, the National Centre for Biological Sciences, the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Indian Institute of Science.

"The aim of the letter is to bring awareness among scientists about the problems faced by some women scientists at academic institutions and to show solidarity with women faculty/students who garner courage to speak out and often feel pressure to withdraw complaint (as is the case at hand)," Riddhi Shah from JNU'S School of Physical Sciences said.

"I hope that this movement will succeed in restoring a conducive environment to continue teaching and research activities by women in the science labs," a retired scientist from JNU'S School of Life Science added.