A fresh investigation has commenced in Kanpur following protests by ITBP personnel over alleged medical negligence that resulted in the amputation of a fellow jawan's mother's hand. The new probe, initiated on Sunday, involves a joint team comprising police, ITBP experts, and health department officials, unlike the previous inquiry conducted solely by the health department.
Background of the Incident
On May 19, Vikas Singh, a jawan from the ITBP's 32 battalion stationed at Maharajpur, arrived at the Kanpur Commissioner of Police office carrying his mother's amputated hand. He alleged gross medical negligence by a private hospital where his mother was treated. The incident prompted around 60 ITBP officers and personnel to gather at the police office the following day, accusing district medical officers of shielding the hospital's doctors.
Details of the Medical Episode
According to reports, Singh admitted his mother to a private hospital in Tatmill on May 13 for breathing issues. During treatment, her hand allegedly turned black due to an infection. She was later transferred to another hospital, where doctors amputated her right hand on May 17. Frustrated by the lack of action, Singh visited the Railbazar police station and the ACP office for two consecutive days. When no steps were taken, he went to the CP office with his mother's amputated hand.
Police Commissioner's Response
Police Commissioner Raghubir Lal stated that ITBP officers expressed confidence in the police's actions but a joint team was formed to ensure transparency. The team includes a police officer with an MBBS degree, who has prepared a list of medical questions to help identify those responsible for the amputation. Lal also objected to the large number of ITBP soldiers arriving at the Police Commissionerate office, after which more than half of them left the premises. ITBP officials maintained that it was not a siege but a protocol followed by their soldiers.
Issues with the Initial Report
Lal had earlier directed Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Hari Dutt Nemi to investigate and submit a report. The CMO office submitted its report on Friday, but Lal objected, stating that the report was based on probabilities rather than being clear and conclusive. He asked the CMO to establish culpability and recommend whether a case should be registered. During discussions with Lal on Saturday, ITBP officers raised several issues not covered in the CMO's report, and Vikas Singh requested the police to investigate additional points.
Conclusion
The new joint probe aims to address the concerns raised by the ITBP and ensure a thorough investigation into the alleged medical negligence. The involvement of multiple agencies is expected to bring transparency and clarity to the case.
