Jammu, July 17: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday strongly condemned the assault on a female doctor at the Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu, asserting that violence against healthcare professionals will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Addressing a function at AIIMS in Samba district, Abdullah confirmed that he has directed strict legal action in the case and called for immediate filing of an FIR against those involved in the attack. “Our doctors must work free from fear and intimidation. Strict action has been directed in the recent case. I have asked for a case to be filed and justice to be delivered,” he said.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when attendants of a patient, reportedly enraged over the patient’s death, physically assaulted a female doctor on emergency duty. The episode triggered widespread protests and a strike by junior doctors, with the Doctors Association Jammu (DAJ) demanding enhanced security measures in government-run hospitals.
“Doctors dedicate themselves selflessly, often beyond duty hours. Their intentions and efforts are unwavering and they must never be blamed for outcomes beyond their control,” said the chief minister.
He stressed that medical professionals cannot be held responsible for every patient outcome. “Life and death are not in the hands of doctors but in the hands of the Almighty. Assaulting a doctor without fault is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated,” Abdullah added.
The chief minister further pointed out that one of the female doctors injured in the incident is currently under treatment. He also revealed CCTV footage of the altercation during a press conference, which showed the doctor being physically attacked inside the hospital.
Recounting the trauma, the assaulted doctor said: “I was on emergency duty yesterday. I got a call that a patient was unstable and not able to breathe. I immediately rushed and removed the tube, but still the patient was not able to breathe. During these procedures, the attendants became aggressive. I tried to explain, but they turned violent. We give our hundred percent — we don’t deserve this.”
The DAJ on Thursday reiterated its demand for dedicated security at hospitals, warning that continued incidents of violence could seriously jeopardize the functioning of the healthcare system.
“We urge the administration to take urgent steps. If doctors are not protected, the entire medical system risks collapse,” the association said in a statement.
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