SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, June 24: A controversy has erupted at Medinirai Medical College Hospital (MMCH) in Palamu after a video of its principal, Dr. PN Mahto, allegedly threatening MBBS students went viral. In the 55-second video, Dr. Mahto is seen and heard telling students, “Career barbaad kar denge” (We will ruin your career), during a heated exchange.
Despite repeated attempts, Dr. Mahto did not respond to calls for comment. The authenticity of the video has not been independently verified by The Jharkhand Story. However, MBBS students have reportedly forwarded the video to the state health minister, the additional chief secretary (health), and other authorities, demanding action against the principal.
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Students, Parents Raise Alarm Over Threats
The incident occurred around 7 PM on Monday at the college gate, when a girl student was denied entry for not carrying her identity card. Fellow students from nearby hostels gathered at the spot, leading to a commotion. During the altercation, Dr. Mahto arrived and allegedly issued the threat that was captured by students on their mobile phones.
Parents of the students have expressed deep concern over the principal’s conduct and fear that he might harm their children’s academic future. Citing an earlier incident on January 18, 2025, they alleged that Dr. Mahto has been targeting students for months. They warned that if the government fails to act, they would seek legal recourse.
Repeated Allegations Within Six Months
This is the second such controversy involving Dr. Mahto within six months. Following a previous complaint filed by MBBS students with the Deputy Commissioner, it is alleged that Dr. Mahto orchestrated a raid on the hostels by the SDO in the late evening of January 18. Students claim this was done in retaliation for the complaint against him.
Notably, weed, empty liquor bottles, girls’ clothes in boys’ room were found in hostel searches at MMCH Daltonganj on January 18.
Medical Associations Demand Principal’s Removal
The incident has triggered sharp reactions from medical associations. The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), Junior Doctors Association (JDA) RIMS Ranchi, and the Junior Doctors Network (JDN) Jharkhand chapter have all condemned Dr. Mahto’s remarks. They have demanded his resignation and warned of statewide protests if he is not removed from his post.
FAIMA national co-chairman Dr. Jaideep Choudhary said, “Dr. Mahto’s torture, harassment, and misconduct have crossed all limits. He must resign. A principal is expected to guide students, not threaten to destroy their careers.”
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Delegation to Meet Health Minister
JDN state chairman Dr. Sushil Kumar and secretary Dr. Raghvendra Kumar said the principal’s words were unbecoming of someone entrusted with shaping students’ futures. “A delegation will soon meet the health minister to demand action. We will also involve IMA and JSHSA to initiate a mass agitation if necessary,” said Dr. Kumar.
The controversial video has been shared with the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, and the state health minister for immediate action.
