In a serious incident at Gajra Raja Medical College (GRMC) in Bhopal, the institution's Dean, Dr. R K S Dhakad, was allegedly threatened, abused, and obstructed while performing his official duties. The police response, however, has sparked significant controversy, with authorities taking more than 48 hours to register a First Information Report (FIR) and subsequently applying only minor, bailable sections of the law.
A Delayed and Diluted Police Response
According to the official FIR, the unsettling event occurred earlier this week on the college campus. Dr. Dhakad was engaged in his routine administrative work when a group of miscreants approached him. The individuals are accused of using abusive language, issuing direct threats, and creating an atmosphere of panic among the college staff. This confrontation successfully disrupted the normal administrative functions of the medical college.
Despite the gravity of the situation, it took the police over two full days to formally register the case. Following this prolonged delay, the suspects were finally booked, but only under Sections 296 and 351(3) of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Legal experts have pointed out that both these sections constitute minor offences, raising questions about the appropriateness of the charges.
Omission of Key Charge Sparks Legal Debate
College officials revealed that the Dean and his subordinates had specifically requested the police to invoke a provision equivalent to the former Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 353. This section deals specifically with assault or use of criminal force to deter a public servant from their duty. Under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, this is a non-bailable and cognizable offence, carrying much more severe legal consequences.
The police's failure to include this charge has been termed a serious procedural lapse by legal observers. A senior advocate, commenting on the case, stated, "When a senior government officer like a medical college dean is threatened during duty, the charge of obstruction should automatically apply. Its absence weakens the case and sends a wrong signal to both the public and potential offenders."
Growing Demand for Justice and a Fair Probe
The handling of the case has caused considerable concern within the GRMC community. Faculty members and administrative staff have united in their demand for justice. They are calling for the FIR to be immediately amended to include the appropriate, more stringent sections of the law.
Furthermore, they are insisting on a transparent and impartial investigation to ensure that such intimidation of public servants is not trivialized. The incident highlights the challenges faced by officials in performing their duties and the critical need for a robust and timely legal response to protect them.
