Action initiated against absent doctors at PHC Khari

Banihal, Nov 03: The government has initiated "strict action" against medical staff, including three MBBS doctors posted at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Khari in Ramban’s Banihal, for their alleged unauthorized absence from duty on Monday.

The matter came to light after five persons sustained injuries when a Tempo Traveller met with an accident on the Mangit road in the remote Khari area of Banihal on Monday morning. The injured were initially taken to PHC Khari for first aid; however, due to the alleged absence of medical officers and limited facilities, they were later shifted to the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Banihal for specialized treatment.

Locals of Khari Aarpinchla alleged that at the time of the incident, only one BUMS doctor was present at PHC Khari, while three MBBS doctors posted there were absent from duty. The alleged negligence sparked public outrage, with residents demanding immediate administrative action.

Taking serious note of the matter, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Banihal Mohammad Naseeb direct Tehsildar Khari to inquire into the allegations of staff absenteeism at PHC Khari.

“An explanation has been sought from the concerned medical officers, and strict action will follow based on the inquiry findings. Public health services in remote areas cannot be compromised,” SDM Banihal said.

Following the directions of the SDM, the Block Medical Officer (BMO) Ukheral issued an explanation notice to three doctors — Dr. Waseem Raja, Dr. Showkat Ahmed, and Dr. Sameer Ahmed — for their alleged absence from duty. The doctors have been asked to report immediately and explain their position within two days.

The order further mentions that their salaries for the month of October 2025 will remain withheld pending inquiry.

Meanwhile, officials at SDH Banihal confirmed that two of the five injured persons are in critical condition and have been further referred to GMC Anantnag for further treatment and CT SCANs.