The Madras High Court delivered scathing criticism towards the Kalakshetra Foundation, highlighting its failure to appropriately address students' complaints regarding sexual harassment, branding it as a stain on the institution's reputation.

In a series of petitions concerning student harassment, Justice Anita Sumanth acknowledged the explicit details of the alleged harassment, as outlined in the report submitted by the independent committee headed by retired judge Justice Kannan.

Characterizing the allegations as distasteful and profoundly disturbing, she emphasized the imperative of promptly addressing the committee's recommendations for decisive action by Kalakshetra's management.

"The allegations of both omission and commission raised by the petitioners must be promptly investigated, and appropriate actions taken to reach a resolution," she directed, underscoring that the prolonged neglect of students' complaints casts a negative light on Kalakshetra.

Justice Sumanth further emphasized the significance of the draft Gender Neutral Policy for Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal of Sexual Harassment Complaints. Initially proposed by the petitioners, the policy underwent substantial development throughout the hearings, ultimately transforming into a Gender Neutral Policy. This revised policy underwent thorough deliberation and received approval from both the petitioners and respondents involved in the case.

Justice Anita Sumanth remarked that the formulation of the policy represents a positive stride in addressing the issue, although it is acknowledged as only a partial remedy to the situation.

Emphasizing the points raised by the petitioners, Justice Sumanth highlighted the significant role teachers play in both classical and modern educational systems, holding a central position of power. The judge underscored that students inherently trust their teachers unquestioningly, and for the present education framework to flourish, teachers must reciprocate by providing comprehensive mentorship.