SRINAGAR: In the wake of a patient’s death that has sparked public outrage in Srinagar, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) has ordered the suspension of several doctors and paramedical staff at Paras Hospital. The action has been taken pending the outcome of an ongoing inquiry.
The deceased, identified as Waseem Ahmad Pathan, reportedly died under disputed circumstances inside the hospital, prompting protests by his family and local residents outside the hospital. Protesters accused the hospital of medical negligence and prioritising profit over patient care.
According to the CMO’s order, eight medical professionals and staff members have been barred from practice within Paras Hospital and elsewhere in the region. The suspended individuals include Dr Sheikh Zahoor Ahmad (Surgeon), Dr Shah Naveed (Assistant), Dr Zahid and team (Anaesthetist), Dr Syed Dawood (Anaesthetist), Dr Khawar (Anaesthetist), the concerned OT Technician, ICU In-charge, and Nurse Insha.
“All the mentioned doctors and paramedical staff are directed to be available for the inquiry proceedings as and when called. Non-compliance shall be viewed seriously under rules and guidelines in place,” the order reads.
The action follows preliminary findings by an inquiry committee. According to the patient’s family, Waseem had undergone surgery and later developed complications, allegedly due to mismanagement and delays in postoperative care.
Relatives claimed that despite repeated requests, the patient was not properly attended to in the ICU, and the hospital continued to demand additional payments during critical phases of treatment.
“He walked into the hospital and never walked out. All they did was move him from one unit to another and keep asking for money. There was no urgency, no care only invoices,” said a family member. (KNT)
