Pharmacist, health workers clash

Abohar, March 13

Some Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) were seen clashing with a male pharmacist today at the 100-bedded Sub-Divisional Civil Hospital here.

This happened when Civil Surgeon Dr Surinder Kumar and Senior Medical Officer Dr Om Parkash were present in the office complex.

An ASHA worker alleged that the male pharmacist on duty at the tuberculosis ward misbehaved with her when she escorted a patient. She then called her colleagues who too had to allegedly face “indecent” response from the “erring” pharmacist.

ASHA workers reported the matter to the Civil Surgeon and Senior Medical Officer and alleged that he was under the “influence of drinks”.

Two doctors were told to get the pharmacist medically examined but he reportedly fled away with the connivance of some male colleagues without completing his duty hours.

While running away, he was heard denying the allegations and said that ASHA workers had used brooms to attack him. The city police incharge said both factions have lodged complaints. An inquiry would be conducted before registering a case.

ASHA Workers Union president Neelam Rani warned of launching an agitation if the “erring” pharmacist is not booked and suspended.

Today was the second consecutive day patients and staff members witnessed unruly scenes at the hospital.

On Monday, the city police had nabbed patient Maninder Singh Manu of Nanak Nagari for allegedly “abusing” a doctor and paramedics. A case under Sections 353 and 186 of the IPC was registered against him. — OC