Maharashtra medical college suspends paediatrics HOD after student suicide; MARD seeks fair probe

Appreciating Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences’ response to the alleged suicide of a postgraduate paediatrics student, the Maharashtra resident doctors have demanded a fair investigation. The medical college has suspended the Head of Department (HOD) of paediatrics and formed an enquiry committee.

“Dear Pravara Institute administration, We extend our sincere appreciation for the steps taken by Pravara Institute in response to the deeply regrettable suicidal incident involving Dr Vinod Kumar Goud. Your prompt attention to this matter is commendable and reflects a commitment to the well-being of your community,” said central Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) in an official statement.

Thanking the institute for the support, the resident doctors’ body urged that a thorough and impartial investigation be conducted to find out the root causes of this “tragedy”.

Also read ‘Dictatorship’ in DMCH: 56 MBBS students booked for protesting ban on classes, hostel stay; allege medicos

Demanding action, the doctors’ group added, “It is imperative that appropriate strict actions be implemented to prevent any recurrence and to uphold the highest standards of accountability.”

On a social media platform, junior doctors in the department complained of working for more than 40 hours and levelled serious allegations against the female HOD, saying that she mentally harasses students and seeks expensive gifts such as iPhone while threatening to fail them.

PG student suicide

In an official statement, following the student suicide, the deemed university expressed “deep sorrow” and extended “heartfelt” condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this moment of grief.

Pointing to the messages circulating on social media regarding this incident, the medical college said that it understands the emotions and concerns expressed, but requests everyone to refrain from drawing premature conclusions or spreading unverified allegations.

Also read ‘Don’t want to be a doctor’: Maharashtra NEET topper dies by suicide days before MBBS admission

“Such messages, though well-intentioned, can cause additional distress to the bereaved family and may hinder a fair and thorough inquiry,” the institute said.

Listing the actions taken by the management, the institute said the following:

• An enquiry committee has been constituted with immediate effect.
• Institute is suspending HOD paediatrics till the enquiry or fact-finding committee report
• The institute is fully cooperating with all statutory and regulatory bodies to ensure transparency.
• A confidential mechanism, already in place, will be further strengthened for students and staff to raise grievances without fear.

“The welfare and mental health of our students and residents is of utmost importance to us Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be university) is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for learning and professional growth,” the college further stated.

If you know someone – friend or family member – at risk of suicide, please reach out to them. Those in distress or having suicidal thoughts or tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling 9820466726 or visiting AASRA’s official website or can call iCALL on 9152987821. Here are some more helpline numbers of suicide prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.