Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): In a shocking breach of medical protocol, a sweeper was reportedly caught administering an injection to a patient at a government health facility in Jammu and Kashmir. The incident has triggered widespread concern over the safety and supervision within public healthcare institutions.
Reacting swiftly, the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir has issued strict directions to all Block Medical Officers (BMOs) and Medical Superintendents, instructing them to ensure that no staff member deviates from their assigned professional duties.
“This is a serious lapse. Only trained and qualified medical personnel are authorized to administer injections or perform any clinical procedures. Any violation will be dealt with strictly,” the Directorate said in a circular issued following the incident.
The directive further emphasized the need for better supervision and accountability at all levels of healthcare delivery, warning that disciplinary action will be taken against those responsible for such gross negligence.
The Health Department has also urged administrative heads to remain vigilant, regularly monitor ground staff, and strictly adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) to avoid a repeat of such episodes that compromise patient safety and public trust.
An internal inquiry is likely underway to identify those who allowed the violation to occur and to prevent such instances in the future.(DD)