Kupwara: In a brazen violation of norms amid COVID crisis, a doctor posted at District Hospital Handwara was Saturday caught on camera practising at a private clinic during official timing within the main town Kupwara in north Kashmir.
With the resurgence of COVID-19 infection cases in Jammu and Kashmir, the government has cancelled the leaves of doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, and other officials, except maternity or leave taken in medical exigency.
According to news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Dr Khalid Rahim posted at District Hospital Handwara was Saturday caught on camera practicing at a private clinic in Kupwara town with around two dozen patients and attendants waiting for their turn in the waiting hall.
The video was clicked at around 11:15 am on Saturday by a local journalist questioning Dr. Khalid about his scheduled roster duty at the district hospital Handwara.
The journalist had received several calls from patients and attendants raising concerns about the absence of a doctor from duty.
Dr. Khalid Rahim, a child specialist as per sources is running a private clinic at Baber lane Kupwara where he attends patients on regular basis.
The video has triggered resentment against Dr Khalid for not attending official duty rather enjoying the luxury of private practice.
A senior citizen while questioning the functioning of the health department in the district said that the clinic of the aforesaid doctor is just a stone throw distance from Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Kupwara still they have failed to keep an active check on such practices.
Another local said that authorities have immensely failed to act against such elements and end the practice once for all.
“There is no doubt in saying that Kupwara is witnessing a massive growth of medical clinics with establishments coming up at a very rapid pace,” he said.
Meanwhile, Medical Superintendent (MS) District Hospital Handwara Dr. Nisar told KNO that a written explanation has been sought from the said doctor for coming late to the duty.
“An explanation has been issued to him and he is scheduled to file his written reply within two days,” Nisar said. “After his written reply further course of action will be initiated since he reported late to his duties.” (KNO)
