**Mumbai Court Denies Anticipatory Bail to KEM Hospital Doctor Amid Sexual Assault Allegations**
The Mumbai Sessions Court has denied anticipatory bail to Dr. Ravindra Deokar, a doctor at King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital, amid serious allegations of sexual misconduct. The court’s decision, made by Justice Gauri Kawdikar, was influenced by concerns that there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward, having suffered in silence during Dr. Deokar’s lengthy tenure at the hospital.
Dr. Deokar, a professor in the forensic medicine and toxicology department, is accused of inappropriately touching assistant professors, students, and clerks within the department. The First Information Report (FIR) details instances where he allegedly pulled female colleagues close for selfies and touched them inappropriately, including an incident where he kissed a female doctor without her consent.
During the proceedings, Justice Kawdikar highlighted a statement from a female doctor who reported being inappropriately touched by Dr. Deokar, which was recorded alongside testimonies from six other individuals who have come forward with similar allegations. The judge noted the importance of allowing victims to speak freely without fear of intimidation, citing messages and missed calls from Dr. Deokar and his wife to the victims following the FIR’s registration.
Dr. Deokar’s attorney, Advocate Divakar Rai, argued that the delay in filing the FIR was due to internal politics at the hospital and claimed that a senior doctor had been harassing Dr. Deokar, threatening him and his family after Dr. Deokar refused to send his wife to the senior doctor’s home. Rai contended that the FIR was filed in retaliation after Dr. Deokar’s wife reported the senior doctor’s behavior to higher authorities.
Justice Kawdikar expressed concern over the potential for Dr. Deokar to influence or pressure the victims, stating that his release could hinder the ongoing investigation. The court’s ruling emphasizes the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations against Dr. Deokar, ensuring that all victims feel safe to come forward.
In conclusion, the court’s decision to deny anticipatory bail reflects a commitment to addressing serious allegations of sexual misconduct within the medical community, highlighting the importance of protecting victims and ensuring a fair investigation.
**FAQ**
**What are the allegations against Dr. Ravindra Deokar?**
Dr. Ravindra Deokar is accused of inappropriately touching female colleagues and students at KEM Hospital, with multiple victims coming forward to report similar incidents.