6 Medical Students Suspended For ‘Murgha’ Ragging and Extortion

BHAVNAGARR : A disturbing case of alleged ragging at Sir T Hospital’s Medical College in Bhavnagar has exposed what officials describe as a “systematic pattern of abuse, intimidation and extortion” by senior students against first-year junior doctors, triggering swift disciplinary action and police proceedings.

After an intense marathon inquiry lasting nearly 8.5 hours, the Anti-Ragging Committee found six senior orthopedic department students guilty of severe ragging charges. The decision came after statements were recorded from 13 complainant junior students, the accused, faculty members and hospital staff in multiple rounds of questioning.

Following the investigation, the committee ordered strict punishment: one student has been suspended for two years, three for one year, and two for six months. All six have also been directed to vacate the hostel immediately and barred from participating in any academic or hospital-related activities. Authorities confirmed that a formal police complaint will be filed against all accused students.

Dean of the Medical College, Dr. Chinmay Shah, acknowledged the emotional difficulty of the decision. “It is always painful as an administrator to take such action against students, but justice and student safety must come first. Both sides were given multiple opportunities to present their case so that no innocent student is punished,” he said.

The hearing, which began at 5 pm on June 18 and continued until 2 am, was described by officials as one of the most exhaustive disciplinary proceedings in recent memory. “Both parties were heard three times to ensure complete fairness and transparency,” Dr. Shah added.

According to official sources, the complaint alleged that seniors subjected juniors to severe physical and mental harassment, including extortion of money, forced labour-like tasks, sleep deprivation, and inhumane restrictions on basic needs. The allegations also included demands of ₹2.5 lakh per month, forcing juniors to cook food, procure alcohol, and endure prolonged physical punishments such as standing for hours or being denied rest and medical safety equipment.

Health Minister Praful Pansheriya strongly condemned the incident, stating, “Ragging is an anti-social and inhuman act. There will be zero tolerance in Gujarat’s medical institutions. Strict action will be taken to protect students’ dignity and safety.”

He further praised the coordinated efforts of the Health Department, hospital administration, and anti-ragging committee for ensuring a swift and impartial investigation. Officials confirmed that further legal action will proceed alongside disciplinary measures.

The case has sent shockwaves through the medical education community, reinforcing renewed calls for stricter monitoring and stronger enforcement of anti-ragging laws in professional institutions. For the affected students, authorities say the priority now is ensuring safety, accountability, and a harassment-free academic environment going forward.