Three-member committee appointed to probe harassment complaints at Kozhikode Medical College

KOZHIKODE: The Director of Medical Education (DME) has appointed a three-member committee to investigate complaints against faculty members in the Psychiatry Department of Kozhikode Medical College. The probe focuses on allegations against Associate Professor Dr Anitha Kumari and Assistant Professor Dr C.L. Smitha.

The investigation team will arrive at the Medical College tomorrow to collect statements from the Principal, Superintendent, doctors and students. DME Dr K.V. Vishwanathan stated that a report must be submitted immediately, and strict action will be taken against the teachers based on the findings.

The complaint, filed by students of the Psychiatry Department, alleges that the teachers frequently humiliated them in front of patients, bystanders, and other hospital staff over minor issues. The students also claimed they were threatened with the withholding of thesis approvals and the reduction of internal marks.

After 12 students from the department filed the complaint, the Medical College Grievance Cell conducted a preliminary inquiry and submitted a report. Principal Dr K.G. Sajeeth Kumar forwarded this report to the DME, leading to the current investigation. Meanwhile, SFI activists organised a protest on campus demanding immediate action against the teachers.