Srinagar, June 20, KNT: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has suspended GMC Anantnag cardiologist Dr. Syed Maqbool in connection with an ongoing inquiry into alleged irregularities in cardiac procedures conducted under the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo said on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters, the Minister said the suspension order had been issued after the government initiated an inquiry on the basis of complaints received against the doctor.
The case pertains to allegations that surfaced during a departmental inquiry into cardiac procedures performed at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag. The inquiry report alleged procedural irregularities, wrongful claims under the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme and other acts of misconduct, leading the department to recommend major disciplinary action. The allegations have, however, been strongly denied by Dr. Maqbool, who has termed them baseless and submitted a detailed response to the authorities.
“We had initiated an inquiry after receiving complaints and a suspension order has now been issued in this regard,” Itoo said.
At the same time, the Minister emphasized that the doctor should be given a fair opportunity to defend himself before any final decision is taken.
“He should also get a chance to clear his position. Such incidents are unfortunate. The profession of a doctor is a noble one and doctors should never compromise with the lives of patients,” she said.
The Minister said the government was committed to ensuring a fair and transparent process and would pursue the matter to its logical conclusion.
“We started this inquiry and we will take it to its logical conclusion,” she added.
The controversy has attracted widespread attention within medical and public circles, with sections of the medical fraternity urging due process while the government proceeds with the inquiry. [KNT]
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