KIMS Secunderabad DNB mircobiology resident alleges harassment, denial of training access, moves Telangana HC seeking transfer
Secunderabad: Alleging prolonged workplace harassment, targeting, and denial of access to training, a second-year DNB Microbiology Resident at KIMS Hospitals, Secunderabad, has approached the Telangana High Court seeking a transfer to another hospital to complete her training.
In her petition, the resident alleged that her departmental work allocation ceased in November 2025 and access to the Microbiology laboratory was restricted from April 2026, affecting her training and thesis work. She has challenged a handwritten document that was allegedly handed to her by the Head of the Department.
Her representations further alleged caste-related remarks by two doctors of the hospital, professional isolation and pressure to resign.
The DNB resident had previously approached the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) and had submitted audio recordings concerning alleged resignation pressure and instructions to departmental staff not to interact with her. She has alleged that the environment had become increasingly unsafe and life-threatening for the resident.
Following grievance proceedings, NBEMS issued directions on September 18, 2026, requiring the trainee to comply with training guidelines while directing the institution to provide academic support, assistance with training and thesis completion, and a professional and conducive environment.
The resident subsequently sought transfer or reallocation to another NBEMS-accredited institution in Hyderabad, citing concerns about continuity of training. Allegedly, two residents have previously exited the same department under similar circumstances.
Taking note of her plea, the Telangana High Court on October 8, 2026, issued notice in the matter to the respondents. The matter is likely to be heard on November 5, 2026.
"Notice before admission. Ms N.V.R.Rajya Lakshmi, learned Central Government Standing Counsel takes notice on behalf of respondent Nos.1 to 3 and waives further notice. Issue notice to respondent No.4. Personal notice is permitted. List on 05.11.2026," the High Court has ordered.
Speaking to Medical Dialogues, the doctor's lawyer, Advocate G. Silambareshan, said, "We have approached the High Court as the work environment had become untenable. My client was facing caste and religion-based harassment, isolation and denial of training access. We have sought a transfer to another hospital."
The DNB resident doctor has acknowledged the support extended by the United Doctors Front (UDF) team, including Rishabh Jaiswal, Dr Lakshya Mittal and Vishnu Rajgadia, over the ongoing proceedings seeking fair resolution.
Commenting on the matter, Dr. Lakshya Mittal, the National Chairperson of UDF, told Medical Dialogues, "Doctors should get a positive environment to work. It is completely unacceptable if a doctor has to face harassment at their workplace. If the allegations are proved to be true, the authorities should take action."
