RMC Paramedical Staff Accused of Harassment: Women’s Commission Chief

Quick Summary

• Andhra Pradesh Women’s Commission Chairperson, Rayapati Sailaja, investigated allegations of sexual harassment involving para-medical staff at Rangaraya Medical College in Kakinada City.
• Allegations surfaced through an anonymous email sent to the college principal on July 8, revealing the harassment of 55 students from the 2024-25 B.Sc. (MLT) batch.
• Four accused staff members have been suspended following the incident.
• Ms. Sailaja also interacted with victims and held discussions with college authorities about measures taken against the accused.
• Reports suggest previous batches also faced similar sexual harassment incidents, with perpetrators allegedly threatening victims using private photos to silence complaints.
• Ms. Sailaja commended current students for thier courage in bringing these issues forward despite concerns over academic repercussions.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The revelations at Rangaraya Medical College highlight a deeper systemic issue regarding student safety within educational institutions in India, notably concerning abuse of authority by campus staff members. The ability of students to freely report misconduct is frequently enough hindered by fears surrounding academic consequences or personal intimidation tactics-a pattern apparent here as alleged threats were used to suppress complaints in prior incidents.Immediate suspension of accused parties signals accountability but underscores a need for instituting robust mechanisms that enable timely reporting and resolution before such abuses escalate further-such as creating trusted complaint systems outside direct institutional frameworks and offering mental health support for affected individuals.

This case reflects growing challenges around safeguarding student welfare across Indian campuses; sustained efforts will be vital not just in addressing individual grievances but fostering broader cultural shifts ensuring respect, equity, and secure environments conducive to education without fear or repression.Read more: The Hindu