Om Gunjal, ex-MLA’s nephew booked in Kota harassment case. (Photo: FB)
A shocking harassment case from Kota has put the spotlight on Om Gunjal, a former councillor and nephew of ex-MLA Prahlad Gunjal, after a woman professor accused him of stalking, intimidation, and mental harassment.
The case has triggered swift action from Kota University, which has now cancelled his PhD registration amid mounting allegations.
Om Gunjal is a former councillor with political links through his uncle, former MLA Prahlad Gunjal. He completed his MBA from Kota University and was pursuing a PhD under the supervision of the same professor who has now filed a police complaint against him. The academic association, which reportedly dates back several years, has now turned into a serious legal and institutional issue.
The complainant, a female professor at Kota University, has accused Gunjal of लगातार stalking, issuing threats, and mentally harassing her over the past several days. According to her statement, his behaviour changed abruptly, and he began intimidating her over minor issues.
She further alleged that the accused repeatedly visited her residence, often under the influence of alcohol, rang her doorbell late at night, and attempted to contact her forcibly. The situation escalated to such an extent that the professor, who lives alone, feared for her safety and well-being.
The professor’s complaint highlights a disturbing pattern of harassment. She claimed that Gunjal frequently came to her apartment at odd hours, creating an atmosphere of fear and distress. To safeguard herself, she installed CCTV cameras inside her home, while other residents on her floor also took similar measures.
The case shows the vulnerability faced by women living alone and raises serious concerns about safety within academic spaces.
Following the complaint, an FIR was registered at the Anantpura police station in Kota under charges of stalking and criminal intimidation. The police have launched an investigation, with CCTV footage forming a crucial part of the evidence.
The probe is being led by ASI Pratap Singh, and officials have stated that the case is being handled impartially. Circle Officer Manish Sharma confirmed that the professor’s statement has been recorded and that special teams have been formed to track down the accused.
Despite multiple raids at suspected locations, Om Gunjal is currently absconding, and efforts to arrest him are ongoing.
Taking serious note of the allegations, Kota University has acted decisively. Based on the complaint submitted to the Director of Research, the university administration cancelled Gunjal’s PhD registration on April 1.
University Registrar Rajpal Singh stated that the decision was taken after reviewing the gravity of the situation. In addition, the university has banned the accused from entering the campus and directed the Proctor to ensure adequate security arrangements for the complainant.
The professor had also formally requested that Gunjal should not be allowed to continue his PhD under her supervision, citing safety concerns.
The victim filed a police complaint on the night of March 29, detailing the alleged harassment. The following day, she submitted a written complaint to the university’s Director of Research, reiterating her concerns and refusing to supervise Gunjal’s PhD.
Within days, the university administration responded by cancelling his registration and stepping up security measures on campus.
The case has gained attention due to Gunjal’s political connections. However, former MLA Prahlad Gunjal has distanced himself from the controversy, stating that he has no involvement in the matter and that anyone found guilty should face strict punishment.
While the investigation continues, the case highlights broader concerns around safety, power dynamics, and accountability within academic institutions. The intersection of political influence and student-professor relationships has added complexity to the case, making it one of the most closely watched incidents in the region.
With the accused still on the run, police have assured that he will be arrested soon, as the search intensifies across multiple locations.
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes journalism plays a crucial role in amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that truly matter. Sofia has contributed articles to The New Indian Express, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Maktoob Media. She is also a recipient of the 2025 Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitivity. Beyond the newsroom, she is a music enthusiast who enjoys singing. Connect with Sofia on X: https://x.com/SBCism
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