On November 3, 2024, the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Health and Medical Education terminated Dr. Zaheer Abbas, a Medical Officer in the Surgery Department at EH Vijaypur, Jammu, after he was arrested in relation to a stabbing incident. After receiving word from the Director of Health Services, Jammu, that Dr. Abbas had been taken into custody in connection with a complaint (FIR No. 0354) filed at the Kathua Police Station on October 31, 2024, his suspension was formally verified.
After reportedly stabbing two people at the GMC Kathua campus, Dr. Abbas was arrested. Vivek Sharma, a native of Kathua, and Rahul Kotwal, a junior nursing assistant from Doda, were the victims. Both victims were taken to the hospital after the stabbing, which took place on the grounds of GMC Kathua. Sharma continued to receive care at GMC Kathua, while Kotwal, who was gravely hurt, was sent to a private hospital in Punjab for additional care.
In accordance with Section 307 (attempt to kill) and other pertinent provisions of the Indian Penal Code, Kathua Police immediately filed a case against Dr. Abbas after the occurrence. He was taken into jail by the police and held there for almost 48 hours in order to be questioned and investigated further.
The incident caused the Department of Health and Medical Education to immediately suspend medical personnel, raising severe concerns about their conduct. Given the gravity of the offense committed by a medical officer, this suspension is an attempt to maintain accountability and the integrity of the health department. The department’s response demonstrates that it has a zero-tolerance policy for staff members who engage in violent or illegal activities.
The seriousness of the crime perpetrated by a person in a position of authority inside the healthcare system has drawn attention to the case. Depending on how the police investigation turns out, the department is anticipated to take additional action. The suspension of Dr. Abbas brings to light the persistent difficulties in the medical field, where even while violent occurrences involving medical personnel are uncommon, they have the potential to erode public confidence in the field.
Based on the police’s findings and any further legal processes, the health department is probably going to impose more disciplinary measures as the investigation goes on.
SOURCE :
GREATER KASHMIR
