PULWAMA: A medical officer at District Hospital Pulwama sustained head injuries requiring eight stitches after he was allegedly assaulted by an attendant inside the hospital premises, officials said on Friday.
The incident also left a security guard injured during the altercation.
Medical Superintendent District Hospital Pulwama, Dr. Abdul Gani said that the injured doctor, identified as Dr. Omar Khan, was attacked while performing his duties at the Outpatient Department (OPD).
According to Dr. Gani, the incident occurred after an attendant allegedly tried to compel Dr. Omar Khan to examine his patient. He said the doctor had already worked an additional hour beyond duty time and had advised the attendant to have the patient examined by another doctor who was on duty.
“The attendant pushed the doctor and attacked him with a sitting bench. The iron portion of the bench struck his forehead, causing serious injury,” Dr. Abdul Gani said.
He said Dr. Omar Khan suffered a head wound and required eight stitches on his forehead.
Dr. Gani added that a police case has been registered and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the assailant.
“We have registered a police case and efforts are on to nab and identify the attacker,” he said.
Meanwhile, the FAIMA Doctors Association strongly condemned the assault, terming the attack unacceptable and alarming.
In a statement, FAIMA said violence against healthcare workers must be dealt with strictly and called for immediate action against those responsible.
Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan said Dr. Omar Khan was attacked while discharging his professional responsibilities inside the hospital.
“Doctors are meant to save lives, not become victims of violence inside hospitals,” Dr. Momin said.
He urged the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama and police authorities to ensure prompt and strict action against those involved in the assault.
The incident has once again brought attention to concerns surrounding the safety and security of healthcare professionals working in public hospitals. [KNT]
