Chennai cardiologist Ulhas Pandurangi dies months after harassment arrest
Arrested in 2024 after accusations of sexual harassment by hospital employee and later released on bail, he was found dead at his Chennai home on Thursday
Leading Chennai cardiologist Dr Ulhas M Pandurangi, who was out on bail in a sexual harassment case, died on Thursday (May 21). Regional media reports suggest he may have died by suicide, though this is not confirmed.
Dr Pandurangi, Chief of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing at the Madras Medical Mission (MMM), was found dead at his residence in Alwarthirunagar, Chennai. He was 56.
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In October 2024, a woman employee of the hospital filed a complaint at the Thirumangalam All Women Police Station alleging sustained sexual harassment. She subsequently wrote to the National Commission for Women and the Chennai District Collector. Following an inquiry, Dr Pandurangi was arrested in Tirupati. He was later produced before a magistrate and was in judicial custody, according to reports.
Bail and death
Pandurangi was subsequently granted bail and had been residing at his Alwarthirunagar home with his wife, also a doctor. He was found dead yesterday in an apparent case of suicide. A police investigation is on.
(Suicides can be prevented. For help, please call Suicide Prevention Helplines: Neha Suicide Prevention Centre - 044-24640050; Aasara helpline for suicide prevention, emotional support & trauma help - +91-9820466726; Kiran, Mental health rehabilitation - 1800-599-0019, Disha 0471-2552056, Maithri 0484-2540530, and Sneha's suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050)