KEM Medical College launches inquiry into MBBS student's remarks on cadavers

A controversy has emerged following remarks made during a stand-up comedy performance in Gurugram, prompting an inquiry by authorities and strong reactions from the medical community.

The All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA) has strongly condemned comments made by MBBS student Dr Sejal Pawar, describing them as “insensitive and disrespectful” toward cadavers and body donors.

Taking to X, the association said the remarks were “completely unacceptable” and contrary to the ethical standards expected in medical education.

It said, “AIMSA strongly condemns the insensitive and disrespectful portrayal of cadavers and body donors for entertainment or comedy. Every cadaver represents a noble individual who chose to contribute to medical education through body donation, helping shape future doctors and save countless lives.”

The association further emphasized that medical students and professionals are bound by strict ethical responsibilities in handling human remains. It said, “Medical students and professionals are bound by the values of dignity, ethics, and respect towards the deceased and their families.”

It also added, “Any act that mocks or trivializes human remains is unacceptable and undermines the sanctity of medical education. We demand an immediate apology and strict action against those responsible.”

AIMSA warned that it may explore legal options if no action is taken. “Respect the donor,” it said.

Meanwhile, the incident has also triggered legal scrutiny. Maharashtra Cyber has registered an FIR against stand-up comedian Pranit More, Dr Sejal Pawar, and others in connection with allegedly obscene and objectionable content from a stand-up comedy show held in Gurugram.

Officials said the case has been filed under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the IT Act. The complaint includes allegations related to remarks on women, consent, and deceased persons.

Investigators said one clip allegedly included comments suggesting entitlement to physical intimacy based on money spent on a date, which was described as derogatory toward women and dismissive of consent.

The controversy stems from remarks made by MBBS student Pawar during an interaction at stand-up comedian Pranit More's show, where she spoke about cadavers used in medical education.

During the exchange, More asked whether doctors remain serious or crack jokes while conducting autopsies.

In response, Pawar shared anatomy-related experiences involving cadavers and said that she and her colleagues would compare the sizes of male cadavers' private parts.

The video clip was widely shared on social media, drawing criticism from several quarters.

Many viewers described the remarks as insensitive and disrespectful to body donors, whose donated remains are used to train future medical professionals.

Amid the backlash, KEM Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College initiated an internal inquiry into the matter.

"Such remarks are completely unacceptable and intolerable," said Dr Harish Pathak, Dean of King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College.

"We exercise sensitivity when it comes to talking about dead people since their organs can be donated for medical purposes. We have constituted a two-member committee to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation expected by evening," he said.

The two-member committee has been tasked with examining the incident and submitting a report recommending any disciplinary action that may be warranted against the student, identified as Sejal Pawar.

Another clip reportedly contained remarks by Pawar referring to deceased male bodies and medical cadavers, which authorities said were inappropriate and offensive.

The doctor has since issued an apology, stating that she understands the concerns raised and takes responsibility for her comments.

Summons have been issued to Pranit More and Dr Sejal Pawar, and their statements are expected to be recorded as part of the ongoing investigation.

In a parallel development, the National Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter after videos and reports circulated online.

The commission said the issue involves remarks that allegedly promoted sexual coercion and non-consensual behavior.

Notices have been issued to Pranit More, with a hearing scheduled for June 22 at 4 pm. The matter remains under review.