PGI Chandigarh under Scheduled Caste panel scrutiny over discrimination allegations

Chandigarh: The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has come under the scanner of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) over allegations of discrimination and harassment faced by Scheduled Caste employees.

The Commission issued a formal notice to PGIMER on September 4 after receiving a complaint from a doctor on February 21, 2025. The NCSC has invoked its powers under Article 338 of the Constitution of India to inquire into the matter.

In its notice, the Commission has directed PGIMER to submit details of the allegations along with the action taken report within 15 days of receiving the communication. The notice warns that if PGIMER fails to respond in time, the Commission may exercise powers similar to those of the Civil Courts.

Also read- RTI reveals over 100 senior non-faculty posts vacant at PGI Chandigarh

"Whereas a Petition/complaint/information has been received by the National Commission for Scheduled Castes from a doctor dated 21/02/2025 as enclosed and the Commission has decided to investigate/inquire into the matter in pursuance of the powers conferred upon it under Article 338 of the Constitution of India.

You are hereby requested to submit the facts and information on the action taken on the allegations/matters to the undersigned within 15 Days of receipt of this notice either by post or in person or by any other means of communication. Please take notice that in case the Commission does not receive a reply from you within the stipulated time, the Commission may exercise the powers of Civil Courts conferred on it under Article 338 of the Constitution of India and issue summons for your appearance in person or by a representative before the Commission," the notice reads.

Sharing the notice on 'X' (formerly Twitter), Dr Lakshya Mittal, Chairman and National President of United Doctors Front (UDF), tweeted, "PGIMER Chandigarh under scanner! National Commission for Scheduled Castes issues notice over discrimination & harassment of SC employees. Reply in 15 days or face Civil Court powers. Discrimination has no place in Bharat."

Also read- Rotatory Headship Policy at AIIMS and PGI still pending: Health Minister tells Parliament