The Delhi High Court has quashed disciplinary action taken by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) against its student, Aditi Chatterjee, related to her participation in protests against alleged unauthorized raids on women's hostels in 2017.
Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri delivered the judgment, setting aside a show cause notice dated April 23, 2018, an office order dated May 14, 2018, and a monetary penalty of ₹60,000 imposed on Chatterjee. The Court found these actions to be in clear violation of the principles of natural justice.
Background of the Case
The incident traces back to October 2017, when the then Chief Proctor and Assistant Professor of JNU allegedly conducted unsanctioned raids at the university’s women’s hostels. Aditi Chatterjee, along with other students, protested against these actions, which were widely criticized as a breach of privacy and unauthorized interference in the students’ living spaces.
Following the protest, disciplinary proceedings were initiated against Chatterjee. However, she challenged the process, arguing that it was conducted unfairly and without following due legal procedures.
Court’s Observations
Justice Ohri, in his detailed ruling, emphasized that “interference in administrative decisions is justified when the outcome is a result of an unfair process.” He underlined that judicial review in such cases is warranted when the process reflects illegality, irrationality, or procedural impropriety.
The Court found that JNU authorities failed to provide Chatterjee with a copy of the complaint or any supporting materials, including statements recorded by witnesses. This denial of relevant documents prevented her from preparing a proper defense.
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Moreover, the court noted that “the petitioner was allowed to see the complaint for the first time on 07.11.2017 when she appeared before the Chief Proctor,” which highlighted the procedural unfairness.
The absence of essential documents such as the Chief Security Officer's report and security staff statements was a serious concern. The Court ruled that such omissions effectively denied Chatterjee her right to defend herself against the charges.
Concluding that the university did not follow the principle of audi alteram partem—a fundamental aspect of natural justice—the Court quashed all actions taken against Chatterjee. It held that the disciplinary actions lacked transparency and failed to ensure a fair hearing.
“The essence of natural justice lies in providing a fair opportunity to be heard. Any deviation from this standard undermines the credibility of the entire disciplinary process.” — Delhi High Court
Case Title: ADITI CHATTERJEE v. JAWAHARLAL NEHRU UNIVERSITY AND ORS.
