Pune Medical College Ragging Row: What Really Happened?
Summary: A major ragging controversy at Pune’s BJ Medical College led to the suspension of three PG students and the transfer of the Orthopaedics HOD for alleged inaction. A 15-member anti-ragging committee is now investigating, following reports of severe harassment including physical abuse and intimidation.
Ragging Scandal at Pune’s BJ Medical College
Ragging isn’t just a college prank, it’s a serious offence. And when authorities ignore it, it becomes even more dangerous. Pune’s BJ Medical College has taken strong action in a high-profile ragging case involving postgraduate students in a disturbing turn of events.
Why Was the Orthopaedics HOD Transferred?
The Head of the Orthopaedics Department at BJ Medical College has been removed from his position and transferred. This decision came after allegations surfaced that he failed to act on complaints from junior students who were reportedly harassed.
The complaints included both mental and physical abuse, and in one shocking claim, hot water was allegedly poured on the victims. Although college officials have denied this particular detail, the allegations have raised serious concerns.
A source told the Media, “The senior students allegedly harassed the juniors mentally, sometimes physically, and even used intimidating language.”
Who Were the Accused?
Three second-year postgraduate students from the Orthopaedics Department were suspended and evicted from the hostel following a formal complaint. The complaint, received on a Monday, stated that four junior PGs were subjected to
- Threatening behaviour
- Physical mistreatment
- Psychological abuse
Did the HOD Ignore the Victims?
Despite reaching out to the HOD directly, the victims reportedly got no support or intervention. Left with no choice, they escalated the matter to the Mantralaya (Maharashtra state secretariat) in Mumbai. This led to the initiation of a formal investigation by the college.
“The victims even reached out to the HOD… but didn’t get any help, so they went to Mantralaya,” the source added.
However, Dr. Eknath Pawar, dean of the medical college, denied these allegations, saying:
“Neither I nor the HOD received any complaint regarding ragging until Monday when it came from the secretariat and students.”
What Happens Next? Committee on the Case
In response, a 15-member anti-ragging committee was promptly formed. It includes:
- Doctors
- Police officials
- MARD (Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors)
- Representatives from the Parents’ Association
“The final report will be submitted in seven days,” said Dr. Pawar.
What’s Happening Now?
The FIR has been registered, but no action has been taken against the accused yet, even after several days. DSP Anuj Shubham is currently leading the investigation.
The district administration has taken cognisance of the case. District Collector Neelabh Saxena told media:
“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.”
Was There Abuse Inside the Hospital?
Surprisingly, the reported ragging wasn’t limited to the hostel. Some incidents allegedly took place within hospital premises, intensifying the seriousness of the case. The hot water pouring claim was particularly alarming, though the dean termed it as an “exaggeration.”
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Medical Institutions
This incident highlights the urgent need for stricter anti-ragging enforcement in medical colleges. The swift action has been taken in this case, which also raises questions about institutional accountability and the responsibility of senior staff.
Let’s hope this leads to long-term changes in how student safety and complaints are handled, not just in Pune, but across India.
“Ragging isn’t just a joke...it scars students for life. When those in power ignore it, the damage doubles.”
“We trust institutions to protect children. When they fail, it breaks more than rules, it breaks lives.”
Dane
I am an MBBS graduate and a dedicated medical writer with a strong passion for deep research and psychology. I enjoy breaking down complex medical topics into engaging, easy-to-understand content, aiming to educate and inspire readers by exploring the fascinating connection between health, science, and the human mind.
