Jammu/Kishtwar, May 11: Tension gripped District Hospital Kishtwar after doctors, paramedical staff and employees strongly condemned the alleged assault on a hospital employee during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday within the hospital premises.
According to an official communication addressed to the Medical Superintendent, the employee was allegedly assaulted and beaten by some miscreants while performing legitimate official duties at the hospital. The staff termed the incident a “grave offence” and a direct attack on a public servant discharging duties in a government healthcare institution.
Condemning the incident in strong words, the hospital administration and staff fraternity stated that repeated incidents of violence, intimidation and obstruction of duty create fear and insecurity among healthcare workers and adversely affect patient care and emergency medical services.
Demanding strict legal action against the accused, the staff urged the district administration and police authorities to conduct a priority investigation and ensure exemplary punishment to those involved. They also sought enhanced security arrangements within the hospital premises, particularly during night hours, for the safety of doctors, employees, paramedical staff and patients.
As a mark of protest against the assault and prevailing insecurity, the hospital staff announced suspension of all IPD and Emergency services at District Hospital Kishtwar from 10:30 AM on Monday till further orders. However, the decision may be reviewed subject to adequate security assurances and action by the authorities.
The communication was also forwarded to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kishtwar for necessary intervention.
Hospital employees asserted that violence against healthcare workers cannot be tolerated and must be dealt with strictly under law.
