By KNO on 26/03/2020.

‘Seeks report within two days to know whether protocol was followed’

Srinagar, March 26: The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir has ordered inquiry into the allegedly mishandling of the COVID19 patient from Hyderpora who was tested positive two days back and died on Thursday morning at CD hospital Srinagar.

According to wire service –Kashmir News Observer (KNO), divisional commissioner Kashmir has asked additional commissioner Kashmir Tasaduq Hussain Mir to enquire into the matter.

An order issued by divisional commissioner Kashmir reveals that the patient was mishandled by the authorities at CD hospital and SKIMS Bemina.

“Principal SKIMS Medical College-Hospital Bemina vide his communication No. SKIMS-MC-PS/2020/39g dated: 25-03-2020 has submitted a report indicating therein that a 65-year-old patient,  resident of Hyderpora Srinagar who reported to Casualty of SKIMS Medical College Hospital Bemina on 21-0302020 at 08. 30 AM alongwith his travel history was found to be a COVID-19 suspect, ” reads the order, copy of which is with KNO.

It reads that the report further reveals that the patient who was later tested positive for COVID-19 has not been handled as per the protocol required for treating such patients.

“The report further reveals that knowing the travel history of the patient and observing the symptoms of the patient, the Hospital Administration has not brought it into the notice of Divisional/District/Police authorities when he left the hospital without getting admitted, ” it further reads.

As per the order the patient has been given ample time to spread the virus by intermingling with the public and relatives. “The negligence at the hands of Hospital Administration has resulted in a lot of confusion and vulnerability amongst masses.

In view of the above, Medical Superintendent SKIMS Bemina and Head of the Department, Chest Medicine SKIMS Bemina are hereby called to explain their position forthwith, “the order states.

It also reads that in the meanwhile, Shri Tassaduq Hussain Mir (KAS) Additional Commissioner Kashmir shall enquire into the matter for exemplary action against these officers under rules.

The divisional commissioner has sought the sought the enquiry report within two days. He has also directed the Hospital Administration to assist the enquiry officer in the culmination of the enquiry.

Talking to KNO, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir P K Pole said that the inquiry is not linked to death. “I have ordered for a probe to find out whether the case was mishandled and protocol was followed or not,” he said