Student Alleges Harassment by Prof at Ambedkar Hospital & Medical College; FORDA India Calls for Impartial Investigation

FORDA India, representing the collective voice of resident doctors, has strongly condemned such actions and called for a swift and impartial inquiry into the matter.

The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) India has called for an impartial investigation into serious allegations of harassment at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Medical College in Rohini, West New Delhi. The allegations were brought to light in a formal complaint submitted by a female student to the Director Principal of the medical college.

In a letter addressed to the Director Principal, the student detailed a disturbing incident involving Assistant Professor of Pharmacology, Dr. Salim Saikh. The student alleges that on January 31, 2024, around 1:15 pm, Dr. Saikh provided her with a specimen of Vaginal Pessary and proceeded to ask inappropriate questions, despite her expressing discomfort. Following her refusal to answer, she was asked to leave but was later summoned again.

The letter reads: “Me along with other students would like to bring to your kind notice that me along with other girls felt that the Assistant Professor of Pharmacology- Dr. Salim saikh gave me a specimen of Vaginal Pessary and asked me inappropriate questions despite of me getting uncomfortable openly. He asks me to get comfortable and answer. The incident happened at around 1:15 pm. on 31/01/2024. I stopped answering further, so he sent me out and asked me to come again.”

During the subsequent interaction, the student claims Dr. Saikh asked for a syringe, touching her knee and thigh in the process. He later touched her neck, inquiring about the application of the syringe in those areas and making inappropriate gestures. The student further asserts that Dr. Saikh suggested private lessons, promising to teach her how to write answer sheets for better marks. Similar incidents are reported to have occurred with other female students.

FORDA India's Demand for Action

FORDA India, representing the collective voice of resident doctors, has strongly condemned such actions and called for a swift and impartial inquiry into the matter.

Campus Reacts and Student Solidarity

The allegations have sparked outrage within the college community, with students expressing their concerns and demanding immediate action. Several student groups have come forward in support of the victim, emphasizing the need for a safe and respectful learning environment.

Conclusion

As the investigation is set to unfold, the medical community awaits the outcome, hoping for a resolution that not only addresses the specific allegations but also contributes to a safer educational space for all students.