Indore: In an effort to safeguard its historical legacy, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Medical College has proposed transforming the King Edward Medical (KEM) School building into a museum. This initiative aims to offer medical students and professionals an opportunity to explore the institution’s deep-rooted history and its significant contributions to medical education.
The proposal, estimated at Rs 3.21 crore, has already been submitted to the government and is slated for review in the college’s upcoming executive committee meetings.
The KEM Hospital, founded in 1848, is of great historical value to Indore. The building, constructed in the French Gothic style, is affectionately known as ‘Hogwarts’ by the local youth. On the other hand, MGM Medical College, established much later in 1953, has continued the city’s tradition of medical education and healthcare.
In 2023, a plan to turn the building into a library and café specifically for medical students was proposed. However, the plan was hindered by bureaucratic delays and a lack of funding. Additionally, the tourism department had also considered turning the site into a heritage destination, but that idea was also paused.
The college authorities decided to propose the transformation of the building into a museum, aiming to address its deteriorating condition and curb the rising concerns of gatherings of youth and issues like alcoholism due to insufficient security. This comes after repeated requests from the doctors’ association for the renovation of the building, which has led to protests and agitations over the years.
Dr. VP Pandey, Dean-in-charge of MGM Medical College, confirmed the proposal, stating, “A proposal of Rs 3.21 crore has been sent to the government. This will be discussed in the upcoming EC meetings. Securing the right status for the KEM School building is our priority.”
