New Delhi: The Faculty Association of AIIMS (FAIMS) has decided that its members will not participate in the institute's convocation ceremony on Saturday to protest the removal of the head of the cardiothoracic and vascular surgery department “without due procedure” following a harassment complaint by a nurse.

The association also expressed concern that the convocation is being held outside the AIIMS campus for the third time.

In a statement issued on Friday, FAIMS said faculty members will hold a black badge protest from 1 pm in front of the JLN Auditorium, AIIMS. The decision was taken during a general body meeting to discuss what it called the “unjust” removal of the department head, alleging a violation of due process, fairness, and institutional autonomy.

“The faculties of AIIMS have therefore resolved not to participate in the convocation as a mark of protest against the ongoing disregard for due process and institutional principles,” the statement said.

FAIMS noted that the convocation, scheduled for October 25, is again being held outside the AIIMS campus — “the very Gurukul that has nurtured generations of doctors and scientists.” Despite earlier representations, the association said, the administration has continued the practice.

It said FAIMS will again write to the administration urging that future convocations be held within the AIIMS-New Delhi campus.

The association extended its best wishes to students receiving their degrees and reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful protest demanding the reinstatement of Dr. A. K. Bisoi as head of the cardiothoracic and vascular surgery department.