Rape Allegations Prompt Review of Medical Education Program
Jakarta – Indonesia’s Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has temporarily suspended the Specialist Medical Education Program (PPDS) at Hasan Sadikin Hospital, affiliated with Padjadjaran University (Unpad) in Bandung. The one-month suspension aims to facilitate a thorough evaluation following allegations that an anesthesiology resident, Dr. Priguna Anugerah, sexually assaulted a female patient.
The case has drawn meaningful attention, including from members of the national legislature. Ashabul Kahfi, a member of House of Representatives Commission IX, characterized the situation as perhaps systemic and deeply concerning.
“We in the House of Representatives Commission IX are very concerned about reports that the number of alleged victims in the rape case involving dr. Priguna has risen to three,” Ashabul told reporters Friday. “This suggests a problem that might potentially be far more widespread and serious than initially understood.”
Calls for Specialist Education Procedure Evaluation
Ashabul stated that Commission IX is urging law enforcement to conduct a complete inquiry to ensure justice for all victims. He also called on the Ministry of Health and medical education institutions to reassess specialist education procedures.
“This is a moment for introspection for relevant institutions. how could a doctor repeatedly commit such acts against patients and their families?” he questioned.
Charles Honoris, Deputy Chairman of Commission IX, echoed these concerns, urging the Health Ministry to conduct a comprehensive audit of recruitment procedures and complaint mechanisms within healthcare services.He emphasized the importance of preventing similar incidents in the future.
“As a supervisory partner of the Ministry of Health,we urge an immediate and thorough audit of recruitment,supervision,and complaint procedures in healthcare facilities,both public and private,” Charles stated.
Honoris stressed that there should be zero tolerance for Dr. Priguna’s alleged actions and expressed hope that the perpetrator woudl face the full extent of the law.
“The crimes allegedly committed by Doctor Priguna are extremely serious and cannot be tolerated. We strongly condemn these actions and fully support the legal process to ensure the perpetrator is punished severely,” he said.
Multiple Victims Allege Assault
The investigation revealed that Dr. Priguna Anugerah allegedly assaulted multiple individuals. In addition to the initial victim, identified as FH (21), two other patients at RSHS Bandung have come forward with similar allegations.
“Two additional individuals were examined yesterday. It is confirmed that both received similar treatment from the suspect,” stated Senior Commissioner Surawan,Director of the West Java Police,on Friday.
Authorities say the alleged assaults occurred on separate occasions in March.
