Violence at Kupwara CHC: On-duty doctor attacked by patient's attendants
Doctor Assault Triggers Protest in Kupwara
Kupwara: In yet another case of violence against medical professionals, an on-duty doctor and two staff members at the Community Health Centre (CHC) Kralgund in Kupwara district were allegedly assaulted by the patient's attendants on Sunday.
The incident took place on Sunday, August 24, after a patient with a hand injury was brought to the facility by family members. The patient's attendants reportedly assaulted the doctor and staff members inside CHC Kralgund.
Police have since arrested the accused, and the incident has triggered protests and renewed calls for stronger safeguards for medical professionals.
According to a senior official, the incident occurred while the doctor was performing his duties inside the hospital. “The accused was immediately taken into custody. Legal action has been initiated,” he said.
The assault sparked widespread outrage across the region. In response to the assault, doctors and paramedical staff staged demonstrations at CHC Kralgund and Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Langate, raising slogans and demanding strict action against those responsible. Locals and civil society members also gathered outside the hospital soon after the attack to protest and call for swift legal action against the perpetrator. Protesters commended the prompt response of the Handwara Police, who acted swiftly to arrest the accused and restore order.
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“Doctors cannot work under constant threat. If hospitals become unsafe, it will directly affect patient care,” said one of the protesting doctors, reports the Kashmir Monitor.
According to Rising Kashmir, meanwhile, Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK) strongly condemned the assault, terming it “barbaric, unacceptable and a direct attack on the medical fraternity.” DAK President Dr M Y Tak said such shameful conduct is intolerable and an attack on the very foundation of the healthcare system. Dr Ayjaz Ahmad Bhat, President DAK Kupwara, added that slapping or intimidating staff at PHC or CHC Kralgund is reprehensible and undermines ethics and humanity. Senior Vice President Dr Gulzar stressed that doctors work round-the-clock in difficult conditions, and any violence demoralises staff and disrupts health services.
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DAK has demanded a time-bound investigation, strict legal action against the accused, and enhanced security arrangements at all healthcare facilities in the region to ensure the safety and dignity of medical professionals.
