‘Sexual harassment’ rock private hospital in Bhubaneswar; police begin probe

A private hospital in Bhubaneswar has come under scrutiny after a young woman employee filed serious allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct against a lab technician and the hospital management on Wednesday.

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The incident allegedly took place under the Maitree Vihar police limits of the State Capital.

According to the complainant, the lab technician allegedly misbehaved with her and acted vindictively after she spoke out about irregularities within the hospital. She further claimed that the technician recorded some objectionable videos of her and threatened to make them viral.

The victim stated that she had lodged a complaint with the hospital’s HR department, but no action was taken. Instead, she was reportedly terminated from her job after raising her concerns against the lab staff.

Expressing frustration, she has also demanded action against senior officials of the hospital.

Following her formal complaint at the Chandrasekharpur Police Station, an investigation has been initiated. Besides, the hospital authorities have refrained from making any statement, citing that their internal committee is already looking into the matter.

“I was physically assaulted and sexually harassed there (in the private hospital). Moreover, I was mentally tortured. These things have occurred since October 25, but no probe is being done. I had also approached the employees' union, but to no avail,” the victim said.

“CEO, HR head, and the MS did not pay any heed to my accusations. Even after I spoke up and brought allegations against (the lab technician) Subhankar Mohapatra that he has been inappropriately behaving with others (women employees), why is he being supported?” the young woman questioned.

“He (Subhankar) has inappropriately touched me. When I complained, the management told me that I had been terminated,” the woman added.

No comments were received from the hospital authorities concerned in this regard.