Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Jun 12: In a dramatic turn of events that has drawn national attention, the Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD) on Wednesday distanced itself from the now-infamous ‘chair fiasco’ that unfolded during the culmination of their protest at Goa Medical College (GMC). The association said they felt "betrayed and humiliated" by the unexpected developments, which, they claim, ridiculed their genuine cause and efforts.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, GARD representatives expressed deep dismay, stating, “We had no clue about the ‘chair’ drama that was orchestrated at the last moment. Dr Rudresh Kuttikar suddenly brought in Dr Madhu Ghodkirekar as his spokesperson, and he began talking about an apology to a chair—something we were never informed about.”

The episode in question occurred after GARD had officially called off their protest following a meeting with the Chief Minister, who assured them that their demands—including increased security and the curbing of VIP culture in GMC—would be met. However, the situation took a bizarre twist when Dr Ghodkirekar reportedly brought a chair from the casualty department and placed it outside the dean’s office, demanding that the chair be “apologised to,” claiming it had been “insulted”.

“No one from GARD bowed to or apologised to any chair,” a representative clarified. “Our aim was to protect the dignity and safety of our medical fraternity. We now find ourselves mocked nationally for something we were not part of.”

GARD had earlier taken a strong stand demanding an in-person apology from Health Minister Vishwajit Rane over alleged mistreatment of doctors. But the sudden change in tone and the unexpected performance at the protest’s end confused many and triggered backlash.

GARD president Dr Aayush Sharma remained unavailable for comment despite repeated attempts by the media.

“The Chief Minister’s intervention was sincere, and we deeply appreciated that. But this staged ‘chair’ performance undid the hard work we put in to highlight our issues. It has publicly humiliated us,” said the representative, lamenting how the association’s integrity and efforts were undermined by a theatrical act they claim they had no role in planning.

Reiterating their non-political stance, GARD members stated, “We have always stood by the medical fraternity. We only want a safe and respectful working environment for all doctors. The end of our protest should have been a moment of relief, but instead, we were left feeling betrayed and ridiculed.”

As the dust settles, GARD is now working to regain public trust and re-establish the seriousness of their original demands that sparked the protest.