CHC woman doctor alleges sexual harassment by Medical officer, clerk; FIR registered

Karauli: A female doctor working at a Community Health Centre (CHC) in Mandrayal has filed a sexual harassment complaint against the Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) and a clerk. Based on a written complaint submitted to the District Collector, an FIR has been registered at the women’s police station.

In her complaint, the doctor alleged that she has been facing sexual harassment for the past four years. She accused the CMHO and the clerk of sexually, mentally, and financially harassing her during this period.

According to her statement, official work was intentionally delayed unless she paid money. She alleged that they demanded money and pressured her to have sexual relations if she did not pay the money. She was also subjected to casteist slurs and offensive language.

Also read- KEM Hospital Professor Accused of Sexual Harassment by 6 Doctors, Suspended

She stated that the constant harassment made it extremely difficult for her to work and also affected her personal life. She further alleged that her husband no longer lives with her, and she is raising two young children alone. She added that people around her tried to take advantage of her situation, causing her further stress.

The doctor stated that she had earlier complained in various places, but no action was taken. Instead, people questioned her character. Ultimately, she approached the police. However, despite the FIR being registered a few days ago, no action has yet been taken against the accused. DSP Anuj Shubham is leading the investigation into the case.

The district administration has taken cognizance of the matter and formed an investigation committee.

Collector Neelabh Saxena told NDTV Hindi, "The health committee meeting started at 3 pm on Friday. After the meeting ended at 6:30 pm, the lady doctor lodged a complaint. A committee will be formed to investigate this matter, and an impartial investigation will be conducted."

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that a Mumbai sessions court denied the anticipatory bail plea of a senior doctor from the BMC-run KEM Hospital, citing concerns that he could influence the victims and hinder the probe into allegations of sexual harassment. The pre-arrest bail plea of a professor in the forensic medicine and toxicology department of the civic-run hospital in central Mumbai was rejected by Additional Sessions Judge Gauri Kawdikar.

Also read- KEM Hospital Professor denied anticipatory bail in sexual harassment case