Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has directed the termination and suspension of four physicians at Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital and Lok Nayak Hospital, both government-run facilities. The decision comes in response to allegations that these doctors refused medical assistance to an injured individual, resulting in his subsequent demise.
Kejriwal has given his approval to the Delhi Health Department’s proposal, seeking the removal of doctors from GTB Hospital and LNJP Hospital. Additionally, one doctor from each hospital is recommended for suspension.
A Delhi government official revealed that Kejriwal urgently called for stringent measures, citing a perceived “complete lack of empathy and professionalism” on the part of the doctors. The proposal has been forwarded to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena for final approval regarding the decisive action against the doctors.
The decision stems from an incident on January 3, wherein a 47-year-old individual, accused of molestation, leaped from a moving police van. Initially taken to Jag Pravesh Chandra (JPC) Hospital and subsequently transferred to GTB Hospital, the patient faced difficulties due to the absence of a CT scan. Consequently, he was referred to Lok Nayak Hospital, where a lack of available ICU ventilator beds prevented admission. Unfortunately, the man succumbed to his injuries.
Promptly responding to the incident, the Delhi government took action against the doctors in question. Show-cause notices were issued to the medical directors of both hospitals, followed by a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
The investigation report from the relevant authority highlighted a deficiency in empathy and professionalism among the medical personnel involved in the case.
