The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi is facing a serious allegation of sexual harassment and caste discrimination against its Chief Security Officer. A female guard has come forward with accusations that the officer subjected her to inappropriate behavior and hurled casteist remarks. The incident, which allegedly occurred when the guard approached the officer regarding her duty roster, has prompted the institute to launch an immediate investigation.
To address the gravity of the accusations, AIIMS has set up two separate committees. Dr K K Verma, Dean Academics and head of the institute’s committee on redressal of grievances of SC/ ST/OBC, will lead the investigation into the alleged caste discrimination. Meanwhile, Dr Punit Kaur, HoD Biophysics, who chairs the Internal Complaints Committee against sexual harassment, will spearhead the probe into the sexual harassment allegations. Both committees have been tasked with submitting preliminary reports along with supporting evidence within a week of the memorandum’s issuance.
The allegations have sent shockwaves through AIIMS and beyond, raising serious concerns about the safety and well-being of employees within the institute. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on AIIMS to ensure a thorough and impartial probe, leading to appropriate action against the accused if the allegations are substantiated. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of sexual harassment and caste discrimination in workplaces across India, highlighting the urgent need for robust mechanisms to address such grievances and ensure justice for victims.