DM Hepatology resident at PGI Chandigarh attempts suicide, accuses Associate professor of harassment

Chandigarh: In a shocking incident, a first-year DM hepatology resident doctor at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh recently attempted to end his life. In his farewell note, the doctor alleged that he is taking this step after allegedly being harassed by an Associate Professor in the Department of Hepatology.

Accusing the professor of 'destroying his life', the doctor before attempting suicide made a confession letter in which he wrote down the harassment he had faced at the institute which took his will to live. 

The incident took place on Tuesday when the doctor decided to inject midazolam into himself to have a painless death. However, the doctor was saved by his colleagues who rushed him to the emergency for treatment. Although there is no information about his current health status after the incident, he is reported to have survived the suicide attempt. 

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In his note, the doctor claimed that he was subject to constant harassment at the hands of the Associate Professor who deliberately pushed him to the edge which forced him to take his life. He said that the professor made his life unbearable since he joined the institute. 

"He made my life hell... I was personally humiliated by him on rounds, telling me I should go and drown somewhere..." wrote the doctor as reported by TOI. The doctor held the professor responsible for his death. 

In his farewell note, he apologised to his mother, father, sister, grandmother, and his pet dog, Bruno. He added while villains will continue to exist in the PGI, the professor should be held responsible for driving him to suicide.

The incident shocked many at the institute who sympathised with the doctor's feelings and wished for his speedy recovery. He is currently in his hometown with his family. 

As per a media report in HT, it came to light that despite doing MD and DM from PGIMER, the doctor found the environment toxic because of individuals such as his senior which is alleged to have made his life a living hell. 

Taking note of the severity of the incident, PGIMER director Dr Vivek Lal has formed an internal committee to enquire about the matter which will be headed by Association of Resident Doctors president Dr Naveen. A detailed investigation will be conducted and a report will be submitted soon. 

"Taking note of this serious issue, a committee has been constituted to inquire into the matter. The errant doctor will be seriously dealt with, and the resident doctor given justice," said Dr Lal.

“There is no need to come through the head of the department. Any issue must be communicated to me. I have started encashment of leaves and maternity leave sanctions for resident doctors. This is an incentive for these doctors who are the main workforce of the PGI,” said the director.

An investigation carried out by Dr Lal at the institute showed that the victim is not the only doctor who had to face harassment at the institute. Three more such cases came to the fore which prompted the director to take matters into his hands seriously. 

On the other hand, the victim's doctor's family have not yet filed a complaint at the police station. 

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