Terror in Emergency Ward
Two government teachers arrested, “Minister’s PRO absconding”
SUMIT SHARMA
Jammu: In a shocking incident that has sparked outrage among the medical fraternity, a senior Medical Officer posted at the Sub District Hospital (SDH) Akhnoor was brutally assaulted by a group of four assailants, including two government school teachers and an alleged Personal Relations Officer (PRO) of a Minister in the NC-led Jammu and Kashmir government.
The attackers also held hospital staff hostage, triggering a day-long strike by doctors of the hospital.
The disturbing episode unfolded inside the emergency ward of SDH Akhnoor, where Dr. Rakesh Dogra was attending to patients.
According to the doctor, a group of four men accompanied by a female patient approached him for treatment.
After diagnosing the patient with gastritis, Dr. Dogra prescribed medication, but the group insisted on hospital admission.
“When I explained that admission wasn’t necessary and turned to attend another patient, one of them struck me on the head with a bottle and began beating me. The others restrained my staff, effectively holding them hostage inside the hospital,” Dr. Dogra told The News Now. “One of them even claimed to be a PRO to a Minister.”
Following the incident, Dr. Dogra filed a formal complaint, prompting swift action from the Akhnoor Police.
Two of the accused—Lakhbir Singh, a master grade teacher at Government Higher Secondary School Maira Mandrian, and Vickram Jeet Singh, a teacher at Government Higher Secondary School Sohal—were arrested and booked under FIR No. 108/2025 U/S 132/115(2)/3(5) BNS at Police Station Akhnoor.
Police have remained tightlipped on the status of the third accused, identified as a Minister’s PRO, who is currently absconding. The fourth attacker is also on the run.
The brazen attack has reignited concerns over the safety and security of healthcare professionals, especially in government-run institutions.
Medical associations and doctors’ unions have condemned the incident and demanded immediate protection for doctors on duty.
“This incident is not just an attack on an individual but an assault on the entire healthcare system,” a senior health official said. “We urge the administration to take exemplary action and ensure the safety of medical staff.”
