Police Begin Probe Under BNS; Departmental Inquiry Ordered Into Alleged Referral of Patient to Private Hospital
Rajouri, September 8: A newborn’s death following the shifting of a pregnant woman from Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri to a private healthcare facility has triggered both a police investigation and departmental action, officials said.
The incident came to light after allegations were raised that a woman admitted to GMC Rajouri for delivery was allegedly advised to leave the government hospital and seek treatment at a private facility.
According to reports, 22-year-old Sushma Devi, wife of Ragveer Singh and a resident of Mowanakot in Reasi district, had been admitted to GMC Rajouri for delivery. She was reportedly brought to the hospital by an ASHA worker, identified as Salima Begum.
During her stay, allegations were levelled against FMPHW/staff nurse Sharaz Nayazi, posted at the Associated Hospital of GMC Rajouri, along with the ASHA worker. It was alleged that the woman and her attendants were persuaded to shift to a private facility for delivery.
The patient was subsequently taken to the private establishment, where her condition reportedly worsened. The newborn died, while the mother was also reported to have suffered a serious medical condition.
The circumstances surrounding the shifting of the patient, treatment provided at the private facility and the events leading to the newborn’s death are now being examined by the authorities.
FIR Registered at Rajouri Police Station
Taking cognisance of the allegations, Rajouri Police have registered FIR No. 465/2026 under Section 106(1) read with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The case has been registered at Police Station Rajouri, with investigators tasked with establishing the sequence of events and determining whether any negligence or other wrongdoing contributed to the newborn’s death.
The police investigation will also examine the alleged involvement of the individuals named in the complaint and the circumstances under which the patient was shifted from the government hospital.
FMPHW Suspended Pending Departmental Inquiry
Meanwhile, Sharaz Nayazi, FMPHW posted at the Associated Hospital of GMC Rajouri, has been placed under suspension with immediate effect, pending an inquiry into the matter.
The departmental action is aimed at examining the allegations against the health worker and determining whether any lapse in duty or violation of professional norms occurred.
Authorities have initiated a formal inquiry to ascertain the facts before fixing responsibility.
Health Authorities Order Detailed Probe
A separate departmental investigation has also been initiated by the concerned health authorities and GMC Rajouri administration.
The inquiry is expected to look into the entire sequence of events, including the alleged advice to shift the patient to a private facility, the role of the ASHA worker and hospital staff, the treatment provided to the woman and the circumstances surrounding the newborn’s death.
Officials are expected to examine relevant records and statements as part of the probe.
Incident Sparks Concern Over Patient Care
The incident has raised concerns regarding patient care, professional responsibility and the alleged referral of patients from government hospitals to private healthcare facilities.
With both the police and departmental authorities investigating the matter, officials are expected to take further action once the findings of the respective inquiries are established.
Authorities have maintained that responsibility will be determined on the basis of the evidence and findings of the ongoing investigations.(KNC)
