The former head of a department (HoD) at a north Bengal varsity was suspended by its internal complaints committee on Friday night following an allegation by a junior research fellow of sexual misconduct.

Last month, the student filed a complaint in writing to the committee against the professor of her department.

“The committee works for prevention of sexual harassment. After a probe, the committee submitted a report and suspended the professor till further notice,” said a source.

After the complaint, the professor was sent on a forced leave by varsity authorities. The authorities had also removed him from the post of HoD.

After suspension, he will receive half his salary, the registrar said.

“He is not allowed to take any class and can't attend meetings at the varsity, but will have to report daily to the HoD,” said the registrar.

Sources said that students who have been demonstrating against the professor after the incident came to light also wanted him sacked and his doctorate degree scrapped.