Mumbai: Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College and KEM Hospital have launched an internal inquiry into controversial remarks made by MBBS student Sejal Pawar during a stand-up comedy show, following widespread criticism from members of the medical fraternity and the public.
The controversy erupted after a video clip from comedian Pranit More’s show went viral on social media. In the clip, Pawar allegedly made comments regarding the genitalia of male cadavers used for anatomical study, drawing allegations of insensitivity and disrespect toward body donors.
Hospital authorities confirmed that Pawar has submitted a written apology. However, senior faculty members reportedly expressed concern over the nature of the remarks, emphasising that cadavers are donated voluntarily for medical education and are treated with utmost dignity and respect throughout the training process.
In response, KEM Hospital constituted a two-member inquiry committee to examine the matter. The committee has been tasked with reviewing the full context of the programme and assessing whether the remarks violated professional and ethical standards expected of medical students. A report is expected to be submitted to the hospital administration within the next few days.
The hospital has not suspended the student during the inquiry. Officials indicated that while the institution does not intend to take disproportionate action, it considers the issue serious enough to warrant a formal review.
Resident doctors’ bodies and medical associations have also reacted to the incident. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) condemned the remarks, stating that they do not reflect the values of the medical profession. At the same time, the association appealed against online harassment and personal attacks directed at the student, urging that accountability should be pursued through fair and respectful discourse.
Separately, Maharashtra Cyber has registered a case concerning the circulation of allegedly objectionable content linked to the viral comedy videos. The investigation reportedly includes several individuals associated with the programme.
The inquiry’s findings will determine whether any disciplinary action is warranted under institutional regulations and professional conduct guidelines.
