Oxford Business School Dean Resigns Following Harassment Investigation
An Oxford University dean has resigned from his position after an internal investigation found he made unwanted advances towards a vulnerable female academic. Professor Soumitra Dutta, 62, stepped down as dean of Said Business School following a five-month inquiry that upheld multiple harassment complaints against him.
Details of the Harassment Complaints
The case came to light when a female academic approached Professor Dutta seeking help after accusing another male colleague of rape. According to sources who spoke with The Times, during a meeting about this sensitive matter, married Prof Dutta allegedly told the woman: 'I feel very attracted to you' and asked if anything could happen between them.
Although Professor Dutta denied making this specific comment, the internal university investigation upheld three separate complaints of harassment against him, with a fourth complaint partially upheld. The vulnerable academic had approached Professor Dutta requesting that he restrict the male colleague she had accused of rape from accessing the business school.
Aftermath and Departure
Professor Dutta took medical leave in May, and his departure after three years as dean was officially announced on September 10. This came approximately one month after he had informed Oxford University of his decision to leave. An email sent to staff confirming his departure thanked Professor Dutta for his 'contributions to the school over the last three years'.
The university appointed Professor Mette Morsing, director of the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, as interim dean starting September 22. Meanwhile, Professor Dutta has relocated to the United States with his wife, where according to his LinkedIn profile, he now serves as President at the Portulans Institute.
Response and Ongoing Developments
In a response provided through his lawyer, Professor Dutta stated that the allegations arose 'in the context of an ongoing job dispute at the university' but said it would not be appropriate to comment further. He expressed that he takes all allegations of harassment extremely seriously and consistently affirmed his commitment to the university's harassment policy throughout the investigation process.
Professor Dutta added: 'I deeply regret causing any distress or offence by anything I said, and it was never my intention to be anything other than supportive of my former colleague.' He described his time at Oxford as the 'greatest privilege of my life'.
Regarding the original rape allegation that prompted the woman to approach Professor Dutta, police interviewed the male colleague but did not press any charges. The woman is reportedly seeking a judicial review of this decision.
