A professor from Ashoka University in Sonipat, Haryana, was briefly arrested on Saturday for allegedly taking a replica of the iconic Mohenjodaro Dancing Girl statue from the National Museum, Delhi. Police sources quotedin media saying the professor insisted there was no intent to steal, and CCTV footage may support his claim.
The incident occurred around 2:40 pm on September 20, when a CISF head constable noticed the replica missing from one of the museum galleries. Museum staff were immediately alerted, and a quick check identified the missing artefact. The professor, aged 46, was found to be in possession of the replica, prompting the CISF to inform the Delhi Police, who proceeded to make the arrest.
The accused was charged under Sections 305(e) (theft in a dwelling, means of transport, or place of worship) and 317(2) (handling stolen property) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Despite the charges, the professor was granted bail the same day.
Police quoted in media revealed that the professor claimed the theft was unintentional. He told investigators that he had purchased three replicas at the museum but had accidentally placed a fourth item, the Dancing Girl replica, in his bag. Officers noted that CCTV footage appears to support this version of events, showing no deliberate attempt to remove the artefact.
In a brief statement, Ashoka University said: “The incident that happened at the National Museum on Saturday was brought to our attention. The University will conduct an inquiry to examine the matter.”
Police also clarified that because the complaint came from the CISF, they were required to make an arrest, even as preliminary evidence suggested there may have been no deliberate wrongdoing.
The case is currently under investigation, with authorities reviewing CCTV recordings and gathering further evidence. The media has reported that while the professor has secured bail, the inquiry and police investigation are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances of the alleged theft.
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