JAMMU, Jan 23: A war of words erupted on Thursday between the Principal of Government Medical College and Hospital (GMC&H), Jammu, and the MLA of Rajouri over the treatment being provided to patients after three more children from Badhal village, Rajouri, were admitted to two premier hospitals in Jammu.
GMC Principal Dr. Ashutosh informed Rising Kashmir that two children, both under the age of 18, were admitted to SMGS Hospital, Jammu, and were on ventilators, while one child was admitted to GMC Jammu. He added that seven individuals from Badhal village were undergoing treatment at GMC Rajouri.
“Doctors at SMGS and GMC Jammu are in regular contact with specialists at PGI Chandigarh and are receiving hourly advice regarding the treatment of the children,” Dr. Ashutosh said.
Meanwhile, Principal of GMC Rajouri, AS Bhatia, confirmed that seven patients from Badhal village were admitted to GMC Rajouri.
Dr. Ashutosh further mentioned that three patients were airlifted from GMC Rajouri the previous day, and the Rajouri MLA had insisted that the children be transferred to PGI Chandigarh. However, after contacting the Director of PGI Chandigarh, Dr. Ashutosh was informed that no beds were available, and the patients should be kept in Jammu.
This led to a heated exchange between the MLA and the GMC Principal. A video circulating on social media shows the Rajouri MLA expressing dissatisfaction with the handling of the situation and urging proper treatment for the children.
The GMC Principal, however, reassured that the best possible care was being provided. “We are following health guidelines and protocols, not the instructions of any politician,” he said.
