Incident Overview at King George’s Medical University

Alleged Suicide Attempt and Harassment Claims

Lucknow: A female resident doctor at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) reportedly attempted suicide following allegations of harassment against a male colleague. The doctor claimed that the accused pressured her to convert her religion for marriage, leading to severe mental distress. In response, KGMU’s administration has suspended the accused and restricted his access to the campus, permitting entry solely for inquiry purposes.

Legal Actions and Government Response

A First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against the accused based on a complaint from the woman doctor’s father. The father had previously raised concerns through the Chief Minister’s public grievance portal and reported the matter to the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission. On Monday evening, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met with the female doctor to discuss the incident. The doctor informed the CM of the accused’s alleged attempts to form a group at KGMU for religious conversions.

Assurance of Investigation and Support

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath assured the doctor of an impartial investigation, stating, “No culprit will be spared” and promising strict action against those involved. Consequently, the Yogi government has requested a comprehensive report from KGMU regarding the situation.

Details of the Allegations

Claims of Emotional Exploitation

Reports indicate that the female doctor, a practicing Hindu, accused her male colleague—who is of the Muslim faith—of emotional exploitation and coercion to convert to Islam for marriage. Following her refusal, she alleged that he continued to harass her, which ultimately led to her suicide attempt.

Suicide Attempt Incident

On December 27, the female doctor allegedly attempted suicide by ingesting a large quantity of medication in her hostel room at KGMU. She was promptly taken to the Trauma Centre and later transferred to the Critical Care Management (CCM) ICU for advanced treatment.

Accusations of Coercion

According to the complaint, the male doctor demanded, “Convert to Islam if you want to marry me.” This demand formed part of the ongoing harassment she faced.

Current Safety Measures and Investigations

Police Protection and Committee Findings

Reports indicate that a police officer has been assigned to provide 24-hour protection for the female doctor. The Vishakha Committee, established under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, has submitted its findings to KGMU’s administration, leading to the suspension of the accused doctor.

Victim’s Testimony to the Women’s Commission

The female doctor, currently pursuing her MD in Pathology, appeared before the Women’s Commission in Lucknow on Monday, accompanied by her father. During the meeting with Vice President Aparna Yadav, she expressed her fear and the intense suffering she has endured.

Accused Doctor’s Response

Investigation Committee Appearance

The accused doctor attended the investigation committee session on Monday, initially showing reluctance to appear. Despite requesting sick leave, his request was denied, and he was required to submit an affidavit. He maintained his innocence and stated he was unmarried.

Further Allegations of Coercion

In a statement reported by Bhaskar, the female doctor described the extreme pressure and torture she experienced from the accused, stating, “He made physical relations with me by promising marriage. When I became pregnant, he gave me medicine to terminate the pregnancy.” She further claimed that when she inquired about marriage, he insisted that she convert to his religion, leading to escalating conflicts and threats regarding personal photos and videos.

Conclusion

The situation at KGMU underscores serious allegations of harassment and coercion, prompting legal and administrative actions. The ongoing investigation aims to provide clarity and justice in this distressing case.