Medical fraternity condemns assault on on-duty doctor in South Kashmir, demands strict action and enhanced hospital security
In a shocking incident from South Kashmir, a medical officer posted at District Hospital Pulwama sustained serious head injuries after he was allegedly assaulted by a patient’s attendant inside the hospital premises on Friday. The doctor reportedly suffered a deep wound on his forehead and required eight stitches following the attack.
According to officials, the incident occurred inside the Outpatient Department (OPD) of the district hospital while the doctor was performing his duties.
Attendant Allegedly Assaulted Doctor With Bench
As per reports, the patient’s attendant allegedly tried to force the doctor to immediately examine his patient. However, the doctor had already completed his scheduled duty hours and had reportedly continued working for an additional hour to manage patient load.
Officials said the doctor advised the attendant to approach another doctor who was available on duty at the hospital. This reportedly angered the attendant, leading to a violent altercation.
Speaking about the incident, Dr. Abdul Gani, Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Pulwama, stated that despite repeated explanations by the doctor, the attendant became aggressive and physically attacked him.
According to Dr. Gani, the accused allegedly pushed the doctor and struck him with a sitting bench. The iron portion of the bench hit the doctor directly on the forehead, causing severe injuries.
Security Guard Also Injured During Altercation
Hospital authorities confirmed that a security guard who intervened to stop the assault was also injured during the scuffle. The injured doctor was immediately provided medical treatment and received eight stitches for the deep forehead injury.
The incident has sparked outrage among doctors and healthcare workers across Jammu and Kashmir, with several medical associations strongly condemning the attack.
Medical Associations Demand Strict Punishment
The FAIMA Doctors Association described the assault as “unacceptable and alarming,” emphasizing that violence against healthcare professionals inside hospitals cannot be tolerated.
Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan also condemned the incident and stated that doctors dedicate their lives to saving patients and should not become targets of violence while discharging their professional duties.
He appealed to the district administration and police authorities to take immediate and strict legal action against those involved in the assault.
Meanwhile, Dr. Wasim Khan, Founder and Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Medical Association, also expressed concern over the increasing attacks on healthcare workers.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, he said the doctor sustained severe head injuries after being attacked by attendants at Pulwama Hospital and demanded strict punishment for the culprits.
JKMSA Calls Assault “Brutal and Unacceptable”
The Jammu and Kashmir Medical Students Association also strongly condemned the attack, terming it “brutal and unacceptable.” The association demanded immediate arrest of the accused and strict punishment to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The association further urged the government and health authorities to improve security arrangements in hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure the safety of doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare workers.
FIR Registered, Police Begin Investigation
Meanwhile, the J&K Students Association confirmed that Pulwama Police has registered an FIR in connection with the assault and initiated an investigation into the matter.
The association also appreciated Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Pulwama, Tanushree, for taking swift cognisance of the case and responding promptly following the incident.
