The Government Medical College (GMC) Doda has constituted an inquiry committee after students alleged that a doctor asked a student to remove her abaya while attending clinical training in the gynaecology department.
The development came after GNM nursing students staged a protest at the medical college on Wednesday, demanding an inquiry into the alleged incident and action if the allegations are found to be true.
During the protest, students raised slogans and called for fair treatment of students wearing religious attire.
“Why do they have a problem with our burqa? It is our identity and pride?” a protester said during the demonstration.
Students Allege Harassment During Clinical Training
According to the written complaint submitted to the college administration, students alleged that HoD of Gynaecology Dr Madhu Chib did not allow students wearing burqas to enter the labour room.
The students alleged that the issue had become a routine occurrence and questioned why they were being asked to change their attire. They claimed that the doctor wanted the students to wear aprons instead of burqas.
The students described the alleged treatment as harassment and demanded that the college ascertain the facts and ensure that students are treated with dignity and respect.
The allegations have not been established, and the inquiry committee will examine the circumstances surrounding the complaint.
GMC Doda Constitutes Eight-Member Committee
Following the written complaint, the Medical Superintendent of GMC Doda ordered an inquiry into the matter.
The eight-member committee will be headed by HoD Physiology Dr Garima Charak as chairperson.
The Medical Superintendent directed the committee to conduct a “free and fair inquiry” and submit its report within two days.
“The committee should carry out a detailed inquiry and submit a report within two days,” the order said.
A Deputy Superintendent of GMC Doda also confirmed that the committee was constituted after the administration received a written complaint from the students.
He said the matter would be examined by the committee and its findings would be submitted to the competent authorities.
Students Demand Fair Inquiry
The protesting students have urged the college and hospital administration to take cognisance of the allegations and conduct an impartial inquiry.
They also called for measures to ensure that no student faces discrimination or harassment during clinical training.
The inquiry is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the complaint and determine whether the allegations are substantiated.
GMC Doda is currently without a principal after Dr Dev Raj Dogra left the institution following a delay in the government’s response to his voluntary retirement application.
