Serious Allegations of Harassment at Gauhati Medical College Prompt Government Action
Allegations of Misconduct at GMCH
Guwahati, March 24: A formal complaint detailing sexual harassment, misuse of authority, and retaliation has been submitted regarding Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). This has led the Assam government to request immediate measures, including the suspension of the accused individual.
An official statement from the state's Women and Child Development Department indicates that the complaint has been sent to the Medical Education and Research Department for necessary actions in accordance with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.
Issued on March 23, 2026, from Janata Bhawan in Dispur, the communication was signed by a Deputy Secretary and refers to a public grievance submitted via the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), which was directed to the Prime Minister's Office.
A copy of the official document. (AT Photo)
The complaint has been linked to Dr. Mythili Hazarika, an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology at GMCH.
The official correspondence explicitly demands the “immediate suspension” of the accused, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Officials confirmed that the issue has been forwarded to the relevant department with instructions to investigate the complaint and take necessary actions.
The escalation to the PMO via the CPGRAMS platform signifies that the matter has transcended institutional boundaries.
The document states that the complaint is “self-explanatory,” indicating that comprehensive allegations have already been presented during the grievance process.
Previously, in February, Dr. Hazarika lodged a complaint at the Panbazar Women Police Station in Guwahati, alleging that principal Dr. Achyut Baishya persistently requested private meetings in his office and made inappropriate comments that caused her discomfort.
The complaint also mentioned alleged administrative hindrances, such as delays in formalizing her appointment as Head of Department and opposition to her academic initiatives.
In response to the allegations on February 17, Dr. Baishya stated that he had been advised not to communicate with the media and had prepared all necessary documentation for the investigation.
Following the complaint, the Assam government established a two-member committee led by female officials to investigate the situation, while the police have commenced a preliminary inquiry.
According to the POSH Act, institutions are required to ensure a safe working environment and implement systems to address sexual harassment complaints.
The Medical Education and Research Department will now review the case for further action.