Inquiry ordered against three doctors for absence from duty in Ramban
Banihal/Jammu: Authorities have launched an inquiry against three doctors posted at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Khari in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district for allegedly remaining absent from duty, officials said on Monday.
The issue surfaced after a road accident occurred in a remote village of the district, officials said. Five persons — including a woman and two children — sustained serious injuries when a tempo traveller overturned in the Khari area of Banihal. The injured were taken to PHC Khari for first aid, they added.
However, all five victims were referred to the Sub-District Hospital, Banihal, reportedly due to the absence of medical officers at the PHC. This triggered a protest by local residents, who alleged that only one BUMS doctor was present at the facility while three MBBS doctors were missing during the emergency.
Taking cognisance of the matter, Banihal Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Mohammad Naseeb directed the Khari Tehsildar to conduct an inquiry into the allegations.
“An explanation has been sought from the concerned medical officers, and strict action will follow based on the inquiry findings. Public health services in remote areas cannot be compromised,” the SDM said.
Following his directions, the Block Medical Officer (BMO) Ukheral issued explanation notices to the three doctors, asking them to submit their replies within two days. Their salaries for October have been withheld pending the outcome of the inquiry, the SDM added.
