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Madhya Pradesh, May 6, 2025 – Medical professionals across Madhya Pradesh have launched widespread protests following the contentious appointment of Dr. Aruna Kumar as the Director of Medical Education (DME). The protests, marked by junior doctors wearing black armbands while continuing patient care, highlight deep concerns over Dr. Kumar’s previous administrative tenure and allegations of misconduct.
Concerns Raised by Medical Community
The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) has formally expressed “deep concern and disappointment” in a letter addressed to Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla. The letter references departmental order number PHF/4/0001/2024/Seventeen/Medi-2, which confirmed Dr. Kumar’s appointment.
According to FORDA, Dr. Kumar’s prior administrative role was “marred by multiple disturbances, allegations of partiality, and lapses in governance,” which negatively impacted institutional functioning and the morale of medical students statewide.
Symbolic Protests Across Major Cities
Junior doctors in medical colleges across Indore, Bhopal, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Rewa, Sagar, and other cities have adopted the symbolic gesture of wearing black armbands to protest, while continuing to treat patients. Dr. Kuldeep Gupta, President of the Junior Doctors Association (JDA), clarified that the protest targets a “toxic work culture” rather than any individual.
“This fight is not against any particular person; we are struggling in the pursuit of justice,” Dr. Gupta told EdexLive. “This protest is against the toxic work culture and the attitude of Dr. Aruna Kumar.”
Serious Allegations and Emotional Impact
A particularly sensitive issue cited by FORDA involves the tragic death of a female junior doctor, Dr. Bala Saraswati, who reportedly died by self-harm. The letter alleges that Dr. Kumar’s name was “prominently mentioned in connection with this deeply distressing case.”
Dr. Gupta expressed the emotional toll this appointment has taken on the medical community: “This move is not only an insult to the young doctor’s sacrifice, but it deeply wounds our emotions too. Is this how the system shows sensitivity?”
Growing National Support and Potential Escalation
Dr. Meet Gonia, National Secretary of FORDA, indicated that protests have been ongoing for three days and could intensify if the state government does not address the doctors’ concerns.
“We have received multiple representations from Resident Doctors’ Associations of Madhya Pradesh regarding this appointment. Doctors of MP, including senior doctors, resident doctors, and medical teachers, are already protesting,” said Dr. Gonia.
He added, “We are hopeful that the Government of MP will listen to the doctors of their state. We stand with the RDAs of MP, and if they are not heard, the intensity of their protest will increase.”
Demand for Reconsideration
FORDA’s letter urges the Deputy Chief Minister to reconsider Dr. Kumar’s appointment, emphasizing that the role of DME requires “an individual of unquestionable integrity, unbiased vision, and an unwavering commitment to the academic and emotional well-being of both students and faculty.”
As the protests enter their fourth day, the medical fraternity and the public await a response from the Madhya Pradesh government.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information available as of May 6, 2025, from EdexLive and statements from involved parties. The situation is evolving, and further developments may emerge. The views expressed by protestors and officials are presented to provide a comprehensive overview of the ongoing events.
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