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Mumbai, July 26, 2025: Tension is mounting at Sir Grant Government Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals after a third-year paediatrics resident allegedly attempted suicide, prompting a sweeping protest by fellow resident doctors. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD), representing medical trainees at the institution, has issued an ultimatum to hospital administration to permanently remove the accused Head of Department (HoD) by 5 PM on July 30.
Escalating Protest Demands Accountability
In a collective response to what has been described as a “toxic work culture” within the Paediatrics Department, JJH MARD resident doctors have initiated a black ribbon protest. The action is designed to raise awareness and push for a safer, more respectful working environment without interrupting patient care. Routine and emergency medical services remain unaffected during this stage of the demonstration.
However, doctors have warned that if the administration fails to act by the stated deadline, there will be a complete suspension of elective medical services in protest after 5:00 PM on July 30.
“We reiterate our unwavering commitment to patient care, which continues to remain our foremost priority,” JJH MARD stated in a press note. “To ensure a peaceful demonstration without compromising healthcare services, JJH MARD has decided to initiate a black ribbon protest—a symbolic and non-disruptive form of protest—which shall continue until our legitimate demands are addressed.”
Broad Support and High-Level Talks
The pressing demands have garnered broad support from faculty, nursing staff, and other healthcare workers within the Paediatrics ward. Resident doctors have also met with Maharashtra’s Medical Education Minister, Shri Hasan Mushrif, to communicate their concerns and the urgency of the situation. The minister offered a positive and encouraging response, according to the association.
Currently, the accused HoD has only been placed on compulsory leave and temporarily removed from duty, while hospital authorities await a report from the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER). Resident doctors, however, insist this measure is not sufficient and are demanding both permanent removal and the initiation of criminal proceedings.
What Happens Next?
Around 42 resident doctors from the department have been protesting since last Saturday and remain steadfast that unless decisive action is taken, the protest will escalate. “If justice is not served by 5:00 PM on 30th July 2025, it would mark a deeply unfortunate and systemic failure,” the association warned.
Disclaimer
This article is based on current reports and the most recent update as of July 26, 2025. Further developments, official statements, or investigative findings may alter the context or details provided here. For comprehensive and updated information, readers are advised to consult official hospital communications or the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors.
