IIM Calcutta Allows MBA Student on Bail to Attend Classes with Strict Conditions

IIM Calcutta has permitted Paramanand Mahaveer Toppannawar, a second-year MBA student, to return to classes after being released on interim bail in a rape case. The approval was based on an urgent meeting of the institute’s academic council, which took place on July 26. After receiving legal advice and evidence from the court, the council agreed to Toppannawar’s request for reinstatement into academic activities to begin from July 28.

Limited Access with Monitoring

Although the student can now attend lectures and use the library, Mr. Toppannawar cannot stay on campus, in the co-ed Lake View Hostel. This ban is due to ongoing investigations concerning security, and safety monitoring of students. As part of the protocol, Toppannawar's mother is accompanying him on campus and waits near the lecture room. She is staying off-campus, and her presence is part of the strictly conditioned agreement set out by the institute.

Attendance Missed and Possible Future Attendance

Toppannawar was arrested July 12, spent 10 days in police custody, and missed a number of classes as a result. The actions taken by the Institute concerning Toppannawar's absence; attendance and attendance gap will be dealt with later by the academic council. For now, Toppannawar is continuing with the remainder of the sessions just like the other students.

Why the Institute Allowed Him to Return

IIM Calcutta explained that there was currently no legal barrier preventing Toppannawar from entering the campus. Because the police investigation is ongoing, and there is no forensic evidence, no formal medical examination has been conducted, and no formal witness statement has been recorded from the complainant; the court granted bail to Toppannawar. The Institute did not act to prevent or bar Toppannawar from the Institute without a court order because legal advisors informed them it is likely unlawful and a violation of his rights.

Safety is a Real Consideration

There are some students and faculty who still feel concerned about safety and comfort. However, the Institute has assured Council members and Toppannawar that it is taking all appropriate steps to secure a safe environment. The student is being monitored closely and has additionally been instructed to abide strictly by all Institute rules and regulations.

What Now?

The student will continue his studies for now. The institution stated that future access to campus will be reviewed depending on the progress of the investigation. A next hearing in the case is set for December 2025.

To Sum Up

IIM Calcutta is trying to navigate between a student's legal rights and campus safety. The students are returning with conditions and are being tracked. The institute states that it remains committed to fairness, caution, and creating a safe academic space for all.