District admin forms committee to probe allegations
A 37-year-old man, hailing from Arampora village of Kupwara, tragically passed away at Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara on Tuesday morning while as the family has alleged medical negligence, demanding probe into his death
Abdul Hameed Sofi, a father of three, was admitted to the hospital earlier in the day after he complained of arm pain and discomfort.
Family members, according to the media said that doctors initially described his condition as stable after conducting preliminary tests. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when Sofi collapsed unexpectedly.
Relatives alleged that a staff member, who they claimed was a compounder rather than a doctor, dismissed the patient’s condition as ‘a mere act of drama’. They also accused the hospital staff of withholding an ECG report that could shed light on the events leading to Sofi’s death.
“There was no qualified doctor present during the critical moments. If there were none available, they should have asked us to wait,” a family member stated, adding that CCTV footage from the hospital could verify their claims.
The hospital authorities, however, refuted the allegations.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Aijaz Ahmed Bhat clarified that Sofi was admitted at 6:45 AM with chest discomfort and was immediately attended by a doctor on duty.
An ECG test was conducted, which reportedly appeared normal, and the patient was kept under observation. “After administering an injection and a tablet, the patient suddenly collapsed. Despite resuscitation efforts, he could not be revived,” Dr. Aijaz explained, adding that further tests, including TropT, were negative.
The allegations of mishandling and unavailability of doctors were investigated by the police and local Tehsildar. Preliminary findings based on CCTV footage suggested that the patient was attended by both doctors and paramedical staff, dismissing claims of negligence.
However, the hospital administration has promised a thorough investigation.
“A high-level committee will be formed to probe the family’s allegations, and a detailed report will be submitted within two to three days,” Dr. Aijaz assured.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a tragic loss of a young life. “It’s a very unfortunate incident, as a young life has been lost. Our condolences are with the family and loved ones of the deceased,” she stated.
She further assured that an inquiry into the matter has already been initiated. “As and when the investigation is done, which has a time period of seven days, if anything is found, which indicates that there is medical negligence, strictest action will be taken against those involved,” the DC added.
Pertinently, the district administration has constituted an inquiry committee to investigate the death amidst allegations of medical negligence.
The committee, led by the Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Kupwara, includes Dr. Mubashir, MD Physician at SDH Sogam, and Dr. Gulzar, MS General Surgery at SDH Kupwara. The team has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the incident and submitting its findings along with recommendations within seven days.
Besides, the Medical Superintendent of DH Handwara has been directed to facilitate the inquiry in a transparent manner
