Maharashtra: “Toxic Work Culture” Alleged at Pravara Institute After Junior Doctor’s Death
Shirdi, 29th September 2025: The Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University) has suspended the Head of the Department (HOD) of Pediatrics after the death of postgraduate student Dr. Vinod Kumar Goud, a native of Telangana.
Dr. Goud, a junior doctor in the Pediatrics Department, was found dead in his hostel room on September 27. His colleagues have alleged that he faced relentless humiliation and harassment at the hands of the HOD, which pushed him into despair. In a joint statement, several junior doctors accused the department head of fostering a “toxic and abusive system,” citing 40-hour continuous shifts, mental harassment, and demands to purchase expensive gifts.
Institute’s Response
Amid mounting outrage and social media pressure, the institute issued a statement on Monday outlining immediate steps:
Suspension: The HOD of Pediatrics has been suspended pending inquiry.
Enquiry Committee: A fact-finding panel has been set up.
Cooperation: The institute pledged full cooperation with statutory and regulatory bodies.
Grievance Redressal: Confidential grievance mechanisms for students and staff will be strengthened.
The statement, signed by the Registrar and endorsed by the Dean of Dr. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil Rural Medical College, expressed “deep sorrow” over Dr. Goud’s death and conveyed condolences to his family. It also urged the public to refrain from “premature conclusions or unverified allegations,” cautioning that such remarks could add to the family’s distress and hinder a fair inquiry.
Allegations of Toxic Work Culture
Junior doctors from the Pediatrics Department have painted a troubling picture of working conditions, alleging:
Excessive Workload: Continuous shifts of over 40 hours.
Verbal Harassment: Daily humiliation by the HOD.
Forced Favors: Pressure to buy gifts such as sarees and iPhones.
Personal Tasks: Students allegedly made to perform clerical or personal work for the HOD.
According to their account, Dr. Goud’s final hours were marked by “insult and despair” following a confrontation in the HOD’s office.
Call for Intervention
The protesting students have appealed to the National Medical Commission (NMC) and other higher authorities to step in, warning that unless systemic reforms are implemented, more young doctors could be at risk.
“This cannot be another life lost in vain. We need change, and we need it now,” their statement said.
Located in Loni, near Shirdi in Ahilyanagar district, Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences is a NAAC-accredited deemed university. It runs multiple institutions including Dr. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil Rural Medical College, Rural Dental College, and a College of Nursing.
