The decision to strike off a Basildon GP for serious professional misconduct against two female patients has prompted more women to come forward.

Dr Karikkassery Rajan was struck off the medical register following his appearance before the General Medical Council's professional conduct committee earlier this month.

Members heard he had put his hands inside the two women's bras and squeezed their breasts when they came to see him at his surgery in Presidents Court, Laindon.

He had not offered either of them the opportunity of having a chaperone present, nor explained why he was performing the "examination".

The committee heard how he had kissed one of the women on both cheeks after fondling her breast.

Finding the allegations proved, chairman Professor Ken Hobbs described his behaviour as "very serious", adding that it was essential that patients trust their doctors.

Since Dr Rajan's GMC appearance, more calls have been taken from former patients by Basildon, Brentwood and Thurrock Community Health Council, which supported the two original complainants.

One 29-year-old Basildon mother said she had suffered similar experiences when she was in her early teens.

She said: "I was totally shocked. It has caused me a lot of problems throughout my adult life and I find it very difficult to be open sexually with my husband."

The woman said she broke down when she read about the other patients' experiences.

"It raked up so many memories. I have suffered so much and want to make sure he does not practise again."

Mark Ham, CHC chief officer, confirmed they had received a couple of other calls about Dr Rajan, of Toucan Way, Basildon.

He has until May 13 to appeal against being struck off. So far he has not done so.

But a GMC spokesman said he could apply to be re-instated to the register after 10 months had passed from the date he was struck off.

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