Assam govt orders probe after woman doctor alleges workplace harassment by GMCH principal

A senior woman doctor at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) has alleged workplace harassment by the institution’s principal, prompting the Assam Government to order a formal inquiry into the matter.
According to the complaint, the doctor—an associate professor and former head of the Department of Clinical Psychology—has accused GMCH principal Achyut Baishya of making inappropriate remarks and seeking personal meetings outside the professional framework. She has alleged that the conduct caused mental distress and created an intimidating work environment, particularly given the hierarchical power imbalance.
The doctor has also claimed that after she resisted the alleged advances, she faced administrative harassment, including repeated delays in official approvals and alleged obstruction of departmental initiatives. She further alleged that her department was later merged with another unit without adequate explanation, a move she said adversely affected her professional standing and work.
Following the complaint, an FIR was registered at the Panbazar Women Police Station in Guwahati. The state government has constituted a two-member inquiry committee, comprising a senior woman advocate and a woman government official, to examine the allegations and submit its findings.
Officials said the inquiry panel will record statements, examine documentary evidence, and assess whether established norms related to workplace conduct and the prevention of sexual harassment were violated. The committee has been asked to submit its report within a stipulated timeframe.
The accused principal has reportedly denied the allegations and maintained that administrative decisions, including departmental restructuring, were carried out in accordance with government norms. He has refrained from making detailed public statements, citing the ongoing inquiry.
The case has triggered discussions within Assam’s medical and academic circles about workplace safety, institutional accountability, and the effective implementation of mechanisms meant to protect women employees. The outcome of the probe is expected to determine further administrative or legal action.