GMC Principal meets media representatives over assault during doctors’ strike

Srinagar, July 26: The Principal of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, Professor Dr Iffat Hassan Shah, Saturday met the President of the Press Club of Kashmir, Mohammad Saleem Pandit, on Saturday, following an incident in which several journalists were allegedly assaulted during a protest by postgraduate (PG) doctors at SMHS Hospital earlier this week.A statement issued here said that the meeting, attended by senior journalists and law enforcement officers, centred around the events of Wednesday, when media personnel covering the doctors’ strike were reportedly physically assaulted by protesting junior doctors, with three journalists sustaining injuries. It was also alleged that a police officer attempting to protect the journalists was pushed aside during the commotion.  Pandit expressed his deep concern over the treatment meted out to members of the press and urged the college administration to take firm disciplinary action.Dr Iffat Hassan Shah responded by assuring that an inquiry, already initiated under a government-appointed officer, would thoroughly investigate the matter. She affirmed that the mistreatment of journalists would be included in the inquiry’s terms of reference, and stressed the need to rebuild mutual respect between the medical fraternity and media. Also present was the Deputy Superintendent of Police from Shaheed Gunj Police Station, who was requested by journalists to expedite the investigation and register an FIR against those responsible. The police officer confirmed that preliminary inquiries are underway, and appropriate legal steps will follow based on the findings. Journalists also raised concerns regarding medical representatives allegedly supporting the strike, calling for their involvement to be scrutinised. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing a willingness to work together in the public interest. Journalists reiterated their support for Kashmir’s healthcare system, while emphasising the importance of maintaining freedom of the press and safety of media professionals.