KEM Hospital in Mumbai has commenced an inquiry regarding comments made by MBBS student Sejal Pawar during a show featuring comedian Pranit More. The remarks, which allegedly involved a comparison of the sizes of male cadavers’ genitalia, have sparked significant outrage on social media.

Hospital sources indicate that Pawar has since submitted a written apology; however, senior medical personnel are reportedly disconcerted about the nature and context of her statements. Cadavers, which are donated for educational purposes, hold immense respect within the medical community, leading to sentiments of hurt among professionals in the field.

As a response to this incident, KEM Hospital has established an inquiry committee to thoroughly investigate the matter. An internal report is expected to be delivered within one to two days, following which the Dean will determine appropriate actions moving forward.

Composition and Focus of the Inquiry Committee

The inquiry committee is comprised of Dr Anita Chalak, Warden of the Undergraduate Hostel and Head of the Biochemistry Department, alongside Dr Shraddha More, an Assistant Professor in Medicine who oversees the hospital’s social media activities. This committee is tasked with closely reviewing the incident in light of existing social media guidelines set by the National Medical Commission.

Hospital authorities have examined the entire one-hour footage of the comedy programme, although only a two-minute segment has gained significant traction online. The full context is crucial for understanding the situation more accurately.

While Pawar has not been suspended during the investigation, hospital officials have stressed the importance of maintaining a strict approach. They aim to convey a clear message regarding the respect for cadavers, which are seen as critical for medical education.

Response from Medical Community and Authorities

MARD underscored the invaluable contribution of body donors to medical education and expressed that both the remarks and the adverse response to Pawar should not overshadow the principles of respect and dignity towards cadavers. The association affirmed that it does not endorse the student’s comments but also highlighted the need for proportionate responses to her actions.

In addition to the inquiry at KEM Hospital, Maharashtra Cyber has filed a First Information Report (FIR) in connection with the incident. The FIR, lodged at the Nodal Cyber Police Station, involves various allegations surrounding the dissemination of content deemed obscene or objectionable in the viral comedy videos featuring the involved parties.

The legal proceedings are underpinned by provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Information Technology Act. This development further complicates the existing situation, as those named in the FIR, including Pawar and Pranit More, are now subject to legal scrutiny following the viral dissemination of the incident.

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