Delhi HC Upholds Termination of DU Professor Accused of Taking Bribes for Marks

The Delhi High Court has upheld the termination of Dr Thelma J Talloo, a senior faculty member of Delhi University’s Jesus and Mary College, who was found guilty of seeking bribes from students in exchange for marks and attendance.

Justice Jasmeet Singh, in his order dated September 12, observed that demanding illegal favours from students “strikes at the very core of academic integrity” and cannot be tolerated in the education system.

Dr Talloo had challenged an arbitral award passed in 2012 by the Appeals Committee of Delhi University, which confirmed her misconduct. The committee had also shown leniency by reducing the punishment from dismissal to termination, ensuring her retirement benefits remained intact.

The case began in 2008 after students alleged that she demanded money and even items like a pearl string in return for favourable attendance and marks. Dr Talloo argued that the complaints were false and driven by personal enmity, and further claimed that the audio recordings submitted against her were doctored. She also alleged bias in the inquiry process.

However, both the inquiry and appeals committees upheld the charges, and the High Court found no ground to interfere with their decision. Justice Singh noted that the disciplinary proceedings were fair and supported by evidence.

Senior Advocate Yasobant Das represented Dr Talloo, while Jesus and Mary College was represented by Senior Advocate Romy Chacko and his team.