SRN Hospital Row: Police constitute SIT to probe assault allegations

Prayagraj: The police administration has constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to investigate the alleged assault on an advocate at the trauma centre of SRN Hospital and subsequent clashes involving doctors, medical students and lawyers in Prayagraj,

The SIT was formed late Tuesday night to investigate allegations made by both sides. The three-member team, comprising an inspector and two sub-inspectors, will function under the supervision of an assistant commissioner of police (ACP). The team will examine the complaints, collect evidence and establish the sequence of events before further legal action is taken based on its findings, officials said, reports the Daily.

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Speaking to Hindustan Times, Additional Commissioner of police Vijay Dhull said cases had been registered on complaints from both sides, with serious allegations levelled by each. The SIT has been formed to ensure a fair investigation into all aspects of the incident, he added.

The controversy dates back to the night of October 22, when a dispute over treatment at the trauma centre of SRN Hospital allegedly led to the assault on an advocate and his driver.

Following the incident, lawyers staged a protest on October 26, alleging that no effective legal action had been taken despite the registration of a case. The protesters blocked traffic from the hospital gate to Mahatma Gandhi Marg, causing disruption across the city.

The protest also affected healthcare services at SRN Hospital, with the functioning of the outpatient department (OPD) and emergency services reportedly disrupted.

Meanwhile, an assistant professor at the medical college accused members of the legal fraternity of assault and looting during the protest. An FIR was registered at George Town police station on the night of October 26 based on his complaint.

Allegations were also raised regarding the assault on eight medical students during the incident, further escalating tensions between the lawyers and the medical community.

On Tuesday, the police administration held discussions with a delegation of lawyers amid the continuing dispute. The subsequent formation of the SIT is aimed at examining the allegations impartially and determining the sequence of events.

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