Upset, hurt: KEM Hospital over woman doctor's cadaver remark, orders probe
KEM Hospital in Mumbai, where MBBS student Sejal Pawar studies, has ordered an inquiry into comments she made during comedian Pranit More's show after her
KEM Hospital in Mumbai, where MBBS student Sejal Pawar studies, has ordered an inquiry into comments she made during comedian Pranit More's show after her remark about comparing the sizes of male cadavers' genitalia triggered widespread outrage. Hospital sources said Pawar has submitted a written apology, but senior doctors remain upset over the remarks made publicly on social media. Sources said the issue has caused hurt within the medical fraternity because cadavers are donated for medical education and are regarded with the highest respect. Read Full Story Following the controversy, KEM Hospital constituted an inquiry committee to examine the matter. An internal report is expected to be submitted within one to two days, after which the Dean will decide on further action. The inquiry committee comprises Dr Anita Chalak, Warden of the Undergraduate Hostel and Head of the Biochemistry Department, and Dr Shraddha More, Assistant Professor in Medicine who also handles KEM Hospital's social media activities.
Hospital authorities reviewed the full one-hour footage of the programme, of which only a two-minute clip has gone viral on social media. Sources said the committee is examining the matter in light of the Medical Commission's existing social media guidelines. The report is expected to be submitted to the Dean by Friday evening or Saturday morning. Pawar allegedly made a comment about comparing the sizes of male cadavers' genitalia while interacting with the audience during Pranit More's show, drawing sharp criticism online. Hospital authorities have not suspended Pawar during the inquiry. Sources said the institution does not intend to be excessively harsh but will act strictly because it wants to send a strong message. According to hospital sources, what particularly upset senior doctors was the reference to cadavers in a manner they considered disrespectful. They said cadavers are donated by individuals for the education of medical students, and the study of human anatomy forms the foundation of medical training.
Publicly making such remarks for laughs, they said, should not be taken lightly. The hospital's resident doctors have also distanced themselves from the statement, saying doctors always respect cadavers and take an oath to uphold that principle. They described the remarks as condemnable. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) issued a statement saying it upholds the highest standards of professionalism, ethical conduct and respect for body donors, whose contribution is invaluable to medical education. "The remarks made by the student were inappropriate, do not reflect the values expected of medical professionals, and have understandably caused hurt and concern," the statement said. MARD noted that Pawar has publicly expressed regret and issued an apology. While the association said it does not endorse the remarks, it also stated that the personal vilification, online abuse and targeted harassment directed at the student were neither constructive nor proportionate. The association further said public discourse should remain focused on the incident and should not extend to unrelated issues such as the student's admission through the reservation quota.
It added that members of the medical fraternity support accountability, reflection and learning while ensuring discussions remain respectful, balanced and humane. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Cyber has registered an FIR in connection with viral comedy videos featuring stand-up comedian Pranit More, Himanshu Jangra, Sejal Pawar and other persons. According to a press note issued by Maharashtra Cyber, the FIR has been registered at the Nodal Cyber Police Station under Sections 75(1)(iv), 75(3), 294 and 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, read with Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000. The FIR names stand-up comedian Pranit More, Himanshu Jangra, Sejal Pawar and other persons found involved in the publication and dissemination of allegedly obscene and objectionable content through online platforms and social media. Maharashtra Cyber has also sent summons to the accused following the registration of the case. Ends
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