The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Srinagar has suspended eight doctors and paramedical staff at Paras Hospital following the death of a patient, Waseem Ahmad Pathan, which sparked widespread outrage. The suspensions are pending an inquiry into allegations of medical negligence and unethical profiteering. The hospital’s practices have been criticized, with the patient’s family accusing them of prioritizing profits over patient care and demanding additional payments even during critical phases of treatment.
The suspended staff include Dr. Sheikh Zahoor Ahmad, Dr. Shah Naveed, Dr. Zahid, Dr. Syed Dawood, Dr. Khawar, an OT technician, ICU in-charge, and Nurse Insha. The CMO’s order directs them to be available for inquiry proceedings, with non-compliance to be viewed seriously.
The incident has sparked protests and outrage on social media, with netizens calling for accountability and systemic reforms. Health activists welcome the CMO’s intervention but urge for more comprehensive measures, including transparent audits, standardized protocols, and regulatory mechanisms to monitor private hospitals. They argue that temporary suspensions are not enough to address the underlying issues. The case highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability in private healthcare facilities.
