PTI, NEW DELHI: A Delhi court Saturday framed molestation charges against former TERI chief R K Pachauri in a case of alleged sexual harassment lodged by his former colleague.
Metropolitan Magistrate Charu Gupta put Pachauri on trial for the offence punishable under sections 354 (outraging modesty), 354 A (making physical contact, unwelcome and sexually coloured remarks) and 509 (teasing and using vulgar gesture and actions) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
The charges were framed after Pachauri, who was present in the courtroom, pleaded not guilty and claimed trial. Advocate Ashish Dixit, appearing for the accused, sought a speedy trial.
“My (Pachauri) age is 78 years and me and my family are suffering from hardship. For almost last four years we are facing media trial,” the counsel said on behalf of Pachauri after which the court put up the matter for further proceedings on January 4, 2019.
The court also summoned the complainant on the next date for recording of her statement.
On September 14, the court had discharged him from the section 354B, 354D and 341 of the IPC, saying that prima facie these sections were not made out against Pachauri.
Reacting to the development, the complaint said today, “Spoken with my lawyers and understood all aspects especially with regards to challenging for inclusion of three charges Finally, trial is committed. Made complete arrangements to be available during the said time period…The truth will triumph.”
