SRINAGAR: The Block Medical Officer (BMO), Darhal Malkan, in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, has sought explanations from five healthcare staff members following alleged lapses in duty after an elderly patient suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) was brought to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Darhal Malkan at around 8:30 am for urgent medical attention.
The explanation call issued by the BMO on August 10 names Medical Officers Dr Mutahir Wani and Dr Samina Malik, MLHPs Dr Rishab Sudan and Dr Mudassar Kabir, and Mohd Younis.
According to the notice, Dr Rishab Sudan, Dr Mudassar Kabir and Mohd Younis were on night duty but allegedly left the hospital before the arrival of the doctor assigned to the morning shift.
The BMO also stated that Dr Samina Malik had repeatedly been directed to remain on call and stay stationed at SDH Darhal when MLHPs were assigned night duty. However, the notice alleged that she left the station without informing the BMO or obtaining written permission. It also noted that she had been provided a residential quarter within the premises of SDH Darhal Malkan.
Dr Mutahir Wani, who was rostered for morning duty from 8 am to 2 pm, was also alleged to have arrived late and failed to inform the doctor on night duty about his delayed arrival.
The BMO said the patient’s attendants subsequently complained that no doctor was available at the hospital. Following the complaint, Dr Imran Ganai was immediately called and attended to the patient despite not being on duty.
The five staff members have been directed to submit their individual replies within two days of being served the explanation call, clearly stating the reasons and circumstances for their alleged failure to attend to the patient in time.
The BMO warned that if the replies are not submitted within the stipulated period, it would be presumed that the concerned staff members had nothing to say in their defence. Disciplinary action, as warranted under the applicable JK Civil Services Rules, would then be initiated against them.
The notice, bearing number BMO/D/Est/2026-27/972-73 and dated August 10, was also forwarded to the Chief Medical Officer, Rajouri, for information.
