In a decisive move against misconduct, Lucknow's prestigious King George's Medical University (KGMU) has terminated the admission of a resident doctor found guilty of harassing a female colleague. The action follows a swift investigation by the university's Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
Swift Action and Immediate Ban
Addressing the media on Friday, KGMU Vice-Chancellor Prof Soniya Nityanand announced the termination, calling it the highest level of disciplinary action the institution can take. The university has also forwarded its recommendation to the Directorate General of Medical Education (DGME) for further steps. "Such acts cannot be tolerated at KGMU as they tarnish the institution's reputation," she stated firmly.
The accused doctor was initially suspended on December 22, and his entry into the KGMU campus was banned with immediate effect. Prof Nityanand emphasized that the university's stance on discipline is uncompromising.
Timeline of the Complaint and Investigation
According to ICC chairperson Prof Monica Kohli, the sequence of events unfolded rapidly. The university received a written complaint from the victim on December 21 around 10 am, alleging mental, emotional, and sexual exploitation.
Demonstrating urgency, the ICC held its first meeting by 2 pm on December 22. Statements were recorded from the victim, the accused, and the accused's father during this session. The accused appeared before the committee only once, where he claimed the relationship was consensual and denied being married.
"However, during the inquiry, we spoke to his wife over the phone, which exposed the falsehood of his claim regarding his marital status," revealed Prof Kohli. After December 23, the accused went absconding. His residence was locked, phones switched off, and repeated contact attempts failed, prompting the ICC to inform the police.
The ICC held its final meeting on Wednesday, reviewed all evidence, made a last attempt to contact the accused, and then submitted its report to the Vice-Chancellor, recommending strict action.
Background of the Case and Security for Victim
Officials disclosed that prior to the formal complaint, the victim doctor had attempted suicide on December 17 by overdosing on medication. She was admitted in critical condition to the KGMU Trauma Centre and discharged on December 19.
The victim's father had lodged complaints on the Chief Minister's grievance portal and with the State Women's Commission. His allegations were serious: he claimed the accused pressured his daughter to convert for marriage while hiding his existing marital status. He further alleged the accused had previously converted and married another woman.
Taking these allegations seriously, KGMU requested a formal complaint from the victim. The university also ensured her safety. At KGMU's request, the police provided her with a bodyguard. For additional security, she was shifted to a hostel, and the university granted her 20 days of leave.
Proctor Prof R A S Kushwaha stated that KGMU took all necessary steps for the victim's safety and well-being and is prepared to take further measures if needed.
Separate Panel to Probe Conversion Allegations
In a related development, a seven-member fact-finding committee has been constituted to probe allegations of attempted forced conversion and extremist activities on the KGMU campus. Chaired by Prof KK Singh, the panel includes former DG (Intelligence) Bhavesh Kumar Singh.
Constituted on December 26, the committee has already held a two-hour meeting, recording statements from several resident doctors. Representatives of social organizations and advocates have also appeared before it. The committee is currently collecting evidence and is expected to submit its report within 10 days.
This case highlights the critical importance of robust internal mechanisms in educational institutions to address harassment and ensure a safe environment for all.
