The hospital administration has also proposed a five-member inquiry committee to conduct a detailed investigation into the incident. The panel has been asked to submit its report within seven working days.
According to hospital officials, the decision was taken after a preliminary inquiry indicated the need for a broader review of the matter. The proposed committee will include a retired faculty member, three senior faculty members and a journalist as an external member to ensure an independent assessment.
KEM Hospital Dean Harish M Pathak said the student has been placed under the care of her parents and that concerns regarding her safety and mental well-being are also being considered.
He added that any further action would be taken according to the applicable rules and guidelines since Pawar is still pursuing her medical education.
On Friday, Pawar submitted a written apology, acknowledging that some of her remarks were inappropriate and may have hurt people’s sentiments.
The hospital’s preliminary inquiry reportedly found the comments to be objectionable and insensitive, stating that they did not meet the standards of dignity, empathy and professional responsibility expected from a medical student.
The controversy began after videos from a comedy show featuring Pranit More went viral on social media. In one of the clips, Pawar allegedly made remarks about male cadaver donors, leading to criticism and public outrage.
Following the incident, Maharashtra Cyber Police registered an FIR against Pranit More, Sejal Pawar and another audience member, Himanshu Jangra.
Jangra, who allegedly made a separate remark during the event, reportedly lost his job after the controversy gained attention.
Hospital authorities said Pawar will be given a full opportunity to present her side before the inquiry committee. The panel will examine the statements made in the viral video, complaints received by the institution, the student’s conduct, related social media activity and the impact of the controversy on the institution’s reputation.
Officials said the committee’s terms of reference will be finalised after necessary approvals are received, following which the investigation will formally begin.
The hospital administration maintained that while certain facts emerged during the preliminary review, a more comprehensive and impartial inquiry is necessary before any final conclusions are reached.
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