A controversy has erupted in Jammu and Kashmir after a professor at Government Medical College (GMC), Doda, allegedly barred burqa-clad students from entering the labour room, triggering massive protests. Students and interns, who have been protesting over the past three days, alleged that Dr Madhu Chib, head of the gynaecology department, objected to students wearing burqas or abayas inside the labour room.
Sources said Dr Chib allegedly asked the students to wear aprons instead of burqas while attending patients. The key concern was that outside clothing could carry infections and pose a risk to pregnant women.
MEDICAL STUDENTS BOYCOTT WORK
Over the past three days, the students have boycotted work and protested outside the hospital against Dr Chib.
The students have claimed that the diktat was nothing but harassment and an attack on their religious clothing. They also submitted a complaint against the doctor to the medical superintendent.
The hospital administration has now ordered an inquiry into the allegations. A committee has been formed to look into the matter and has been given two days to submit its report.
Meanwhile, the police have also held discussions with the protesting students and urged them to call off the agitation.
It has, however, done little to pacify the protesters. The students have sought an apology from the professor.
"Why are we being asked to shun the burqa? She (the professor) openly says she dislikes burqas. We demand an apology from the doctor. She said those who wear burqas take part in unlawful activity," Iqra, a student, told The Hindu.
Another student alleged that interns wearing burqas were singled out and were also not allowed to enter the professor's room.
"We told the professor if burqa was not allowed inside the labour room, then ban long nails and other things too. Why single out burqas?" the student said.
Meanwhile, Doda AAP MLA Mehraj Malik said he has already raised the issue with Health Minister Sakina Itoo. "The administration must act swiftly," the MLA said.
Source: India Today