Viral BIMS Inspection Videos: 2 doctors booked for alleged derogatory remarks
Karnataka: Two doctors have come under legal scrutiny for allegedly posting objectionable comments on social media targeting the Lokayukta institution after videos of Upa Lokayukta Justice B. Veerappa's inspection of the Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS) went viral.
The videos were recorded during the Upa Lokayukta's district camp visit to BIMS on June 19 and 20, where he reviewed the hospital's functioning and questioned officials over alleged administrative irregularities.
According to news reports, authorities reportedly detected irregularities during the inspection. An outsourced laboratory technician was allegedly found carrying cash, cheque leaves linked to financial transactions, several debit and credit cards, and other documents. Officials said the employee failed to provide satisfactory explanations when questioned, prompting further scrutiny.
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The inspection also highlighted deficiencies in patient amenities and hospital maintenance. Hospital beds, pillows and bedspreads were reportedly found to be old and damaged despite annual funds being allocated for their procurement. Justice Veerappa questioned the hospital authorities over the alleged failure to utilise these funds, and videos of the interaction were later widely circulated on social media.
Following the circulation of these videos, two doctors allegedly posted derogatory comments on Instagram. Their identities were traced with the assistance of the Cyber Crime Police, after which separate complaints were registered against them, and notices were issued.
According to a report by the Indian Express, the complaint filed by the Upa Lokayukta states that the alleged comments had lowered the dignity of the Lokayukta institution and demoralised its officials. It further noted that such acts may amount to an offence under Section 17 of the Karnataka Lokayukta Act, besides attracting provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to insulting or obstructing a public authority in the discharge of its duties.
