Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has taken cognisance of a complaint filed by a female resident doctor at King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow, who allegedly attempted suicide after accusing a senior colleague of harassment and pressuring her to convert her religion for marriage.
Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that the resident doctor allegedly attempted suicide following sustained mental distress linked to the alleged actions of her colleague.
Allegations of Emotional Exploitation and Harassment
According to the complaint, the doctor stated that she is a Hindu and alleged that her male colleague, who belongs to the Muslim community, emotionally exploited her and repeatedly pressured her to convert to Islam in order to marry him. She claimed that when she refused to convert, the alleged harassment continued, leading to severe psychological stress and ultimately her suicide attempt.
Father Approaches Authorities
Following the incident, the victim’s father submitted complaints on the Chief Minister’s public grievance portal as well as to the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission. He alleged that continuous pressure exerted by the colleague to change her religion was the primary reason behind his daughter’s suicide attempt.
Women’s Commission Assures Strict Action
Addressing a press conference along with the complainant, Women’s Commission Vice President Aparna Yadav said the Commission would ensure strict action against the accused after a thorough investigation. She alleged that the senior doctor trapped a junior colleague “in the name of love” and forced her towards religious conversion, terming the case as one of “love jihad”.
Accused Allegedly Concealed Marital Status
According to Aparna Yadav, the resident doctor was initially unaware that the accused doctor was already married. She further alleged that the victim later discovered that the accused’s first wife had also undergone religious conversion. When the junior doctor attempted to distance herself, the senior colleague allegedly intensified the pressure and instigation.
FIR and Arrest Promised
Speaking to Bhaskar, Yadav said that an FIR would be registered in the case and the accused would be arrested. She added that the Commission would seek stringent punishment in court and would also probe whether any other individuals were involved in the alleged harassment.
Victim Seeks Protection and Justice
The victim doctor said she approached the Women’s Commission seeking justice and protection. Expressing concern for her own safety and that of her family, she demanded strict legal action against the accused.
A complaint regarding the incident had earlier been submitted to the KGMU proctor. Aparna Yadav clarified that the victim has not received any threats after approaching the Women’s Commission.
