Two days before Pune PhD scholar died by suicide, accused scientist submitted apology on ‘affidavit’

What Happened

A Benniamin, head of the Botanical Survey of India in Pune, submitted a signed affidavit apologizing for workplace harassment two days before a PhD scholar under his supervision died by suicide. The affidavit, prepared at a notary's office with witnesses present, acknowledged his improper conduct and unethical behavior. He assured full cooperation for her thesis completion. The scholar's father said his daughter disclosed the harassment only when preparing the apology. She was found dead that Saturday.

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