On Thursday, approximately 200 students protested at Kalakshetra Foundation, a top arts and cultural school in Chennai, demanding justice for survivors of alleged sexual harassment by four male faculty members.

The students chanted slogans against the government and the National Commission for Women (NCW), which they accuse of dismissing their complaints.

The demonstration occurred just one day after NCW chairperson Rekha Sharma paid an unscheduled visit to the Kalakshetra campus. She talked with Revathi Ramachandran, the director, and some of the faculty members.

Students claim she urged them to report incidents of sexual harassment in front of other students and faculty members.

“She asked, ‘were you molested, were you molested? one by one. Is that the proper method to conduct an investigation? Their goal is to conceal it,” a female pupil explained.

“This has been going on for years,” a former academy student remarked.

One student described the type of harassment survivors faced, saying, “It’s sexual messaging, abuse if we resist, low grades, and no dance opportunity no matter how good we are”.

“Over the years, many were sexually abused… remember, we’re talking about 18- or 19-year-old girls who can’t dare to complain,” said another.

The main complainant refuted claims of sexual harassment when questioned by the internal complaints committee of the institute, and Sharma had previously begged the state police commissioner C Sylendra Babu not to pursue the case.

The organization had earlier this week claimed in a report that the claims of sexual misconduct made against Kalakshetra faculty members were disinformation.

Ramachandran said, “No one will be spared who is involved in any unsavory activity”.

Further, she stated that the individuals accused have been questioned and that the board will consider taking legal action.

The Kalakshetra Foundation, founded in 1936 by dancer Rukmini Devi Arundale, is a nationally recognized institute that teaches Bharatanatyam dance, Carnatic music, and other traditional arts.

It is well-known for its high standards of excellence and discipline, and it has produced several notable artists over the years.

The sexual harassment scandal has shaken the institution and its alumni, who have expressed solidarity with the students as well as dismay over how the issue has been handled.

Some well-known artists, including singer TM Krishna, have also spoken out against Kalakshetra’s response, calling for a thorough investigation.

In a statement, Mr. Krishna said, “As you are aware, no investigation will be effective unless the environment is caring and compassionate towards those alleging sexual abuse, in this case, young students and alumni. No one will speak freely and fearlessly in such a hierarchical environment”.

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