JJ Hospital resident doctors on strike against ‘harassment’ and ‘dictatorship’

On May 28 the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors wrote a letter to the dean alleging that Dr Lahane was continuing to practise in the department and conducting cataract surgeries, which they claimed was adversely affecting their academic activities. They also complained that despite working at a premier medical college, the junior resident doctors had done no cataract surgery.

“Many of the students are having mental health issues due to the horrible working environment. In violation of the rules of the National Medical Council, six students are doing their thesis under Dr Lahane, who is not even a professor. But it jeopardises the future of the residents. Their theses can be subjected to questions in the future since their guide did not even hold a legitimate designation in the department,” said a resident doctor.

Meanwhile, a three-member committee formed to investigate the complaints found that the department was at fault. In the wake of the report’s findings, nine medical staffers including Dr Parekh have submitted their registrations. However, they have rejected the allegations.

“The report is unacceptable because Dr Ashok Anand, a member of the investigation committee, had a sexual harassment case that was investigated by Dr Ragini Parekh. Moreover, we also demand strict action… The resignation of all doctors should be accepted,” said Dr Lahane.

Dr Saple, however, said, “I have not received any resignation yet. I heard it in the news that nine doctors have resigned. However, I have received a leave application from Dr Ragini Parekh…”