Mumbai`s KEM Hospital and Seth G.S. Medical College have placed third-year MBBS student Sejal Pawar on compulsory leave for 15 days following controversy over remarks she made during a stand-up comedy show, an official statement said.
The decision was announced after the institution initiated an inquiry into comments allegedly made by Pawar regarding male cadavers used for medical education.
Her remarks triggered criticism on social media and raised concerns within the medical community.
According to a statement issued by the Dean`s office, the leave period will take effect from June 13 and continue until further orders are issued following the completion of the inquiry.
Hospital officials said Pawar was placed under the care and supervision of her parents or guardians during the leave period.
She has also been directed to cooperate fully with the investigation and remain available whenever required by the inquiry committee, either in person or through online hearings.
Five-member inquiry panel proposed
The institution has proposed the formation of a five-member inquiry committee comprising senior faculty members, an external representative and other institutional officials.
The committee will examine:
- The circumstances surrounding the remarks
- The context in which they were made
- Their impact on the institution and medical profession
- Social media circulation of related video clips
- Relevant records and evidence
The committee will subsequently submit recommendations for further action.
Hospital stresses fair and transparent process
KEM Hospital stated that the matter would be handled with seriousness, sensitivity and procedural fairness.
The institution clarified that no final conclusions should be drawn until the inquiry is completed and the committee submits its report.
Officials said any further action would be taken in accordance with regulations of the National Medical Commission (NMC), Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS), Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and institutional rules.
The controversy stems from a stand-up comedy event held in Gurugram, Haryana, hosted by comedian Pranit More.
During the programme, Pawar allegedly made comments about male cadavers and deceased bodies used for medical training. Authorities described the remarks as disrespectful to the dignity of the deceased.
Following public criticism, Pawar issued an apology for the comments.
Maharashtra cyber probing matter
The incident has also attracted the attention of Maharashtra Cyber, which has registered a case against comedian Pranit More, web developer Himanshu Jangra and others over the alleged circulation of obscene and objectionable content online, reported the PTI.
Investigators are examining video clips from the show that went viral on social media and sparked widespread debate.
The officials had earlier said the inquiry into the student as well as the cyber investigation are continuing.
(with PTI inputs)
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