Doctor reports to duty in inebriated state at Vijayapura Hospital, sparks outrage
Compulsory Rural Service
Vijayapur: In a disturbing incident at the Shiranal Ayush Health Centre in Chadchana Taluk, Vijayapura District, a doctor reportedly arrived at the facility intoxicated, leading to a chaotic situation.
The doctor has been identified as the hospital's health inspector. He allegedly created havoc by damaging hospital property, including breaking windows and smashing furniture.
The situation took a dramatic turn when he collapsed and lost consciousness on the hospital premises. According to sources, this is not the first time the doctor has been involved in such misconduct. He had previously been suspended for drinking alcohol while on duty. Additionally, He also allegedly verbally abused female patients in the past reports The New Indian Express.
This latest incident triggered a public outcry, with hospital staff and residents demanding immediate suspension and strict action against the accused doctor. Deputy Commissioner T. Bhoobalan condemned the doctor's behaviour, stating that the doctor's actions are completely unacceptable, reports the Daily. “Such action cannot be tolerated at any cost. Since the matter has come to my notice, I will ask the officials concerned of the Ayush department to take serious disciplinary action against the erring doctor”, he said.
Strict action is required against such misconduct as doctors being inebriated on duty can lead to catastrophic events. Last month one such incident took place in Chhattisgarh where an on-duty doctor at Koylibeda Hospital in the Kanker district was suspended for being intoxicated while on duty and reportedly declining to treat a 10-year-old boy, who subsequently passed away without receiving medical treatment.
In 2022, the Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB) of the National Medical Commission (NMC) specified that intoxication during duty or off duty affecting professional practice will be considered as misconduct resulting in suspension.
