Chandigarh: The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) has come under scrutiny by the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) following complaints of alleged discrimination and harassment faced by Scheduled Caste employees.
Complaint and Notice
The action follows a complaint filed by a doctor on February 21, 2025. Acting on it, the Commission issued a formal notice on September 4, invoking its constitutional authority under Article 338 of the Indian Constitution to investigate the matter.
Directions to PGIMER
In its communication, the NCSC directed PGIMER to:
- Submit details of the allegations.
- Provide an action-taken report within 15 days of receiving the notice.
The Commission warned that failure to respond could result in it exercising powers equivalent to Civil Courts, including issuing summons for personal or representative appearance.
Excerpt From the Notice
The notice reads:
“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.”
Public Reaction
Sharing the development on social media platform ‘X’, Dr. Lakshya Mittal, Chairman and National President of the United Doctors Front (UDF), wrote:
“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.”
