Enough Is Enough: GMCH Professor Speaks Out on Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Principal

A senior associate Professor of Gauhati Medical College and Hospital has publicly spoken about the sexual harassment allegations she filed against the institution’s principal, Dr Achyut Baishya, stating that she decided to come forward after years of alleged harassment and administrative pressure.

The remarks were made while addressing the media after the Assam Government constituted an inquiry committee to investigate the allegations.

GMCH Harassment Row: Professor Speaks Out After Inquiry Committee Formed

A senior professor of Gauhati Medical College and Hospital has alleged prolonged harassment and administrative victimisation by the institution’s principal, saying she decided to take legal action after enduring the situation for years.

The victim, who has been working at the medical college for about 25 years, said the behaviour she faced was not limited to her alone and that several others had experienced similar conduct.

Speaking to reporters, she said she had initially discussed the matter with colleagues. However, according to her, many of them expressed fear and advised her to stay away from the principal rather than confront the issue.

But she eventually approached the Chief Minister and later filed a police complaint, though the decision was not easy. “I had to think a lot before filing the case because I have a daughter and several responsibilities,” she said.

She noted that as a psychologist she had spent decades counselling victims of sexual harassment and advising them on how to seek justice, but never imagined she would one day become a victim herself.

According to the professor, the alleged incidents had been occurring since 2022 and had caused severe mental distress. She claimed that attempts were made to become overly familiar with her, including efforts to get close to her personally and visit her residence when she was alone.

She further alleged that after she raised concerns, she faced administrative setbacks within the institution. She said her files were not moved, her PhD guides were verbally abused, and she was eventually shifted from her department.

“Since nothing could be done within the department, I was transferred to another department,” she said.

The professor added that after she filed the complaint, several women — including MBBS students from the college — reached out to her with messages sharing their own experiences.

She said she had remained silent for nearly six months but eventually decided to fight the matter legally.

“I don’t know whether my job will remain or not, but I have done my duty,” she said.

Hazarika also claimed that some people discouraged her from pursuing the case, saying the principal had strong political connections. “Many told me he is close to the Chief Minister and that I still have 15 years of service left, asking why I filed the case,” she said.

“But everything has a limit. This has been going on for more than four years. I am done now. I need justice,” she added.

Addressing those who she claims supported Principal Achyut Baishya, the professor said they should reflect on how they would respond if similar behaviour happened to their own family members.

The Assam government has constituted an inquiry committee to examine the allegations, while police are also probing the complaint. Principal Achyut Baishya has not publicly responded in detail to the allegations so far.

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