Police have arrested four persons so far; further investigation is underway
Anantnag: Following allegations of negligence in a patient’s death at Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag, Health Minister Sakina Itoo warned that violence against doctors cannot be tolerated. The remarks came after relatives of the deceased allegedly assaulted medical staff, claiming she was not attended to in time, which led to her death.
Speaking to reporters in Baramulla, Itoo said grievances against healthcare workers should be addressed through proper channels. “If there is any grievance against doctors, you can complain, but you cannot attack them. Doctors are also human beings, and they work hard,” she said as per the news agency Kashmir News Network.
Her remarks came after the death of a 55-year-old woman from Srigufwara in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Friday evening triggered allegations by her family that she was not attended to by a cardiologist in time.
The incident led to protests inside the hospital, with attendants and locals alleging delays in treatment. The situation escalated into violence, with damage to hospital property and injuries reported among on-duty medical staff.
Hospital authorities said an internal inquiry had been initiated, and preliminary findings did not indicate medical negligence. Principal of GMC Anantnag, Dr Rukhsana Najeeb, condemned the assault on healthcare workers, calling it “deeply unfortunate” and urging strict action against those involved.
Police have registered an FIR and arrested four persons so far, while further investigation is underway to determine the sequence of events.
Itoo said the government has taken steps to improve healthcare infrastructure at GMC Anantnag, citing the addition of facilities such as a cath lab and MRI services. She also alleged that some elements were attempting to tarnish the government’s image.
The minister added that action has been taken against doctors found violating rules, including suspension in cases of private practice during duty hours.
Separately, the All India Medical Students Association condemned the reported assault on a junior doctor, Dr Ainul Huda, during the unrest, and called for stronger security measures in hospitals.
Itoo also announced that a cath lab facility will soon be established at Baramulla hospital to further strengthen healthcare services in the region.
