CSFK condemns assault on doctor at SMHS hospital

Srinagar, July 23: The Civil Society Forum Kashmir (CSFK) has strongly condemned the recent attack on a doctor performing his duties at SMHS Hospital Srinagar, calling it a “deplorable and unacceptable act” that endangers not only the safety of healthcare professionals but also disrupts essential medical services for patients across the region.In a statement issued here, the CSFK said the violent incident is a grave violation of the sanctity of healthcare institutions. “Doctors and healthcare workers dedicate their lives to the service of society. Any attack on them is not only an attack on individuals but an attack on the healthcare system as a whole,” the statement read. The forum urged the government to take immediate and strict legal action against the culprits. “The incident must be met with swift justice. We call upon the administration to strengthen protective mechanisms in hospitals to ensure the safety and dignity of medical professionals,” it said. CSFK expressed full solidarity with the doctors and staff at SMHS Hospital and across Jammu and Kashmir, stating that violence in medical institutions cannot be tolerated under any circumstances. The forum appealed to the public to respect the role and responsibilities of healthcare workers, especially in government hospitals that handle high patient loads under often challenging conditions. “This is a collective responsibility. We must ensure that hospitals remain safe spaces for both patients and providers,” CSFK added.