50 Bhopal Hospital nurses accuse Superintendent of sexual harassment, State orders inquiry

Bhopal: Taking cognizance of sexual harassment allegations levelled by at least 50 nurses of Bhopal-based Hamidia Hospital against its medical superintendent, the state government authorities have ordered an inquiry on the matter.

Besides, the Madhya Pradesh Human Rights Commission (MPHRC) has also served a notice to the Commissioner, Health, seeking a reply within 10 days.

The nurses had written to Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan accusing the medical superintendent of indecent behaviour, especially during the night shifts, and demanded action in the matter.

Speaking to PTI about the incident, the State Medical Education Minister Vishvas Sarang confirmed that a complaint was received against Hamidia Hospital superintendent Dr Deepak Maravi.

"Seeing the seriousness of the complaint, an inquiry has been ordered into the matter which will be conducted by divisional commissioner Gulshan Bamra," he said without elaborating details.

Hospital sources informed at least 50 women nurses have accused Dr Maravi of sexual harassment and obscene acts, especially during night duty.

On the other hand, MP Congress president Kamal Nath said the state government should take strict action on the complaints of nurses. "An incident of indecent behaviour with 50 female nurses in Bhopal's prestigious Hamidia Hospital has come to light. This is a very serious matter related to the safety of women in the workplace," Nath said.

Citing the recent incident in Bhopal wherein the face of a woman was slashed for standing up to eve-teasers, the former chief minister said, "Madhya Pradesh tops the country in the number of crimes against women and minor girls. Even little girls are not safe. Is it good governance? Is this good law and order?"

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