In a disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through Bengaluru's medical community, a well-known dermatologist was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly sexually harassing a woman during a consultation at his upscale clinic in HSR Layout.
The accused, Dr. Ramesh Gowda, who runs the popular Skin Care Clinic, was taken into custody by the HSR Layout police following a formal complaint filed by the victim. The incident reportedly occurred during what should have been a routine medical appointment.
How the Harassment Unfolded
According to police sources, the victim had visited Dr. Gowda's clinic for a dermatological consultation. During the examination, the doctor allegedly crossed professional boundaries and engaged in inappropriate behavior that constituted sexual harassment.
The traumatized woman immediately reported the incident to the authorities, leading to a swift investigation. "We received the complaint and after preliminary verification, we found merit in the allegations," stated a senior police officer involved in the case.
Swift Police Action and Arrest
The HSR Layout police acted promptly on the complaint, registering a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code pertaining to sexual harassment. Dr. Gowda was arrested from his clinic premises and taken into police custody for further questioning.
Medical professionals and local residents expressed shock and disappointment over the incident, particularly given the doctor's established reputation in the community. Many are calling for stricter monitoring of medical practitioners to prevent such violations of trust.
Broader Implications for Patient Safety
This case has reignited important conversations about:
- Patient safety during medical consultations
- The need for stricter enforcement of medical ethics
- Mechanisms for reporting professional misconduct
- Support systems for victims of harassment in healthcare settings
Women's rights organizations have emphasized the vulnerability of patients in clinical settings and are demanding stronger safeguards to protect those seeking medical care.
The investigation continues as authorities examine the details of the case and gather additional evidence. The medical council has been notified about the incident, which could lead to professional consequences for the accused dermatologist beyond the criminal proceedings.
