Pharmacist-Doctor Feud Turns Violent at AYUSH Dispensary, FIRs Registered
Mandi: A long-running dispute between a woman doctor and a pharmacist at an Ayurvedic dispensary in Himachal Pradesh's Sarkaghat area escalated into a physical altercation, prompting police intervention and the registration of FIRs against both parties.
According to reports, the incident occurred at the AYUSH dispensary located in Ropa Thathar in the Sarkaghat subdivision of Mandi district. The dispute between the doctor and the pharmacist had reportedly been continuing for nearly six months, despite repeated efforts by various stakeholders to resolve the matter. The situation turned violent on the evening of June 16 when the husband of the woman doctor arrived at the dispensary at around 4 pm to take her home. During his visit, an argument reportedly broke out between him and the pharmacist over an issue that subsequently escalated into a physical confrontation. The clash reportedly took place both inside and outside the dispensary premises.
The report stated that several attempts had earlier been made to settle the dispute. Villagers, members of the Mahila Mandal, police officials, the Block Medical Officer (BMO) of Sarkaghat, and the District Medical Officer (DMO), Mandi, had reportedly intervened on multiple occasions in an effort to restore normalcy at the healthcare facility. However, the disagreement remained unresolved.
Following information about the altercation, a team from Hatli Police Station reached the dispensary and initiated an inquiry into the matter. Both sides submitted complaints to the police, following which separate FIRs were registered. Medical examinations of the concerned individuals were also conducted as part of the investigation process.
The incident has reportedly drawn concern among local residents, who have demanded the transfer of both employees and the appointment of a new doctor and pharmacist at the dispensary to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services for the community.
Amar Ujala reports that both parties have lodged complaints at Hatli Police Station and the matter is currently under investigation. The report further stated that local residents have expressed dissatisfaction over the prolonged dispute and have sought administrative intervention to restore normal functioning at the healthcare facility.
Confirming the development, DSP Sarkaghat Sanjeev Gautam told Amar Ujala that police had received information regarding a fight between the doctor's husband and the pharmacist at the dispensary. He stated that an FIR had been registered and further action was being taken. Meanwhile, Sub-Divisional Medical Officer (AYUSH), Sarkaghat, Dr Hemlata added that the situation would be assessed through a site visit and a report would subsequently be submitted to higher authorities.
