The class representative was replaced, and seven second-year MBBS students were suspended for six months, by Dr. Mrunal Pathak, dean of academics at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Nagpur.
According to sources, the decision was made in response to an altercation that occurred when these students summoned first-year classmates to their dorm rooms late at night. One of the seven was the class representative.
Dr. Pathak did not specify the specific charge for which the seven students received such unusual and severe punishment in her November 22 suspension letter. The letter only states that “this is due to your gross indiscipline and violation of institute rule.” The suspension will be in effect from November 23, 2022 to May 22, 2023. Some faculty members expressed shock, saying that while a one or two month suspension is acceptable in the event of a major breach, such a long punishment could ruin careers.
Dr Pathak said, “Deliberations are underway over the action, and it may be revoked.” She refused to mention the exact cause for her action.
The students were allegedly denied access to classes on Wednesday and spent time in the parking lot.
Dr Vibha Dutta, director, AIIMS Nagpur, said the suspended students were still in the campus and they would deliberate over the action. “We shall also talk to their parents.
They are also our children. The institute promotes corrective action and assists students in developing a positive attitude. We want them to be good citizens as well as good doctors. It is critical to instil a sense of right and wrong in daily life. We’re worried about their mental, physical, and spiritual health.