JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday strongly condemned the recent assault on a female doctor at Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, asserting that violence against medical professionals will not be tolerated and swift action has been ordered.
The incident occurred after the death of a patient, whose attendants allegedly attacked a female doctor on Wednesday, sparking widespread protests and a strike by junior doctors. In response, the Doctors Association Jammu (DAJ) reiterated its demand for enhanced security at healthcare facilities, citing a worrying rise in such incidents.
“Strict action has been directed in this case. I have instructed that an FIR be registered and justice ensured. Doctors must be allowed to perform their duties without fear or intimidation,” Abdullah said while addressing an event at AIIMS in Samba.
The chief minister emphasized that healthcare professionals should never face violence for doing their duty. “Doctors dedicate themselves tirelessly, often working beyond scheduled hours. They act in good faith and must not be held responsible for outcomes beyond their control,” he said.
Abdullah stressed that while doctors strive to save lives, the final outcome is not in their hands. “Life and death are determined by the Almighty. Assaulting a doctor for something beyond their control is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Legal action must be taken against those responsible,” he added.
He questioned how doctors can perform their responsibilities effectively under constant fear. “As long as I am in office, we will take all necessary measures to ensure a safe working environment for our medical staff,” he assured.
The chief minister also confirmed that the assaulted doctor sustained injuries and is currently under treatment. He shared CCTV footage from the hospital during a press conference, clearly showing the physical assault on the doctors.
Recounting the incident, the assaulted doctor said, “I was on emergency duty when I received a call about a patient struggling to breathe. I responded immediately and removed the tube, but the patient remained unresponsive. Despite trying to explain the situation to the attendants, they became aggressive. We give our hundred percent — we don’t deserve to be treated this way.”
Meanwhile, the DAJ warned that continued violence could lead to the collapse of the healthcare system and urged the administration to provide adequate security at all medical institutions.
