Health unions in Bathinda staged a protest on Tuesday against the Senior Medical Officer (SMO) and Station House Officer (SHO) of Talwandi Sabo, accusing them of negligence and misconduct. The demonstration took place outside the Civil Hospital, where members of various health organizations gathered to voice their grievances.
Allegations of Negligence
The protestors alleged that the SMO failed to provide adequate medical care to a patient, leading to a deterioration in their condition. They also accused the SHO of not taking prompt action on a complaint filed by the health workers regarding the incident. The unions demanded a thorough inquiry into the matter and strict action against the officials involved.
Demands of the Protestors
- Immediate suspension of the SMO and SHO pending investigation.
- Formation of a high-level committee to probe the incident.
- Ensuring safety and security of healthcare workers in the region.
The protest was led by the Punjab Health Department Employees Union and supported by other allied organizations. Speakers at the event highlighted the increasing instances of harassment and lack of support for healthcare professionals.
Response from Authorities
As of now, no official statement has been released by the district administration or the police regarding the allegations. However, sources indicate that a preliminary inquiry has been initiated. The protestors have warned of intensifying their agitation if their demands are not met within a week.
The incident has once again brought to the fore the challenges faced by healthcare workers in the region, who often work under stressful conditions without adequate administrative backing. The unions have called for systemic reforms to prevent such occurrences in the future.
