"Aligarh Muslim University Teacher's Association (AMUTA) demands a high-level probe into the alleged suicide by Srinivas Ramchander Siras, an AMU professor, whose gay orientation was exposed in a sting operation recently."

NDTV.com reports:
(India) The body of 62-year-old Srinivas Ramchander Siras, was found lying on the bed in his private apartment outside the university after police broke open the door which was locked from inside.

Professor Siras was placed under suspension by AMU Vice Chancellor P K Abdul Aziz on charges of homosexuality after a sting operation by a television channel, which exposed him having sexual relations with a rickshaw puller.

Last week, the Allahabad High Court revoked the suspension and ordered his reinstatement after he filed an appeal against the university action.

An emergency meeting of AMUTA has been convened to take stock of the situation. "We are waiting for the post-mortem report to ascertain whether it was a case of suicide or natural death. But one thing is clear, he was subjected to severe harassment by the university authorities and was under intense mental pressure," Siddique told PTI. READ MORE

UPDATED (7:00 AM April 8, 2010)

Gay community demands probe in AMU teacher's death

Hindustantimes reports:
The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) community and social activists on Thursday demanded an impartial investigation into the mysterious death of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) professor S R Siras, who was earlier suspended on charges of "gross misconduct" on campus following his homosexual act with a rickshaw puller.

Siras was found dead in his home on Wednesday with blood oozing out of his mouth.

A statement by a coalition of NGOs working for gay rights and others said: "We, as concerned citizens -- and for many of us, as gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered Indians ourselves -- express our shock, outrage and deep sadness at the loss of a teacher, a loyal member of the AMU community, a gay man, and a kind, gentle soul". READ MORE