Poonch inquiry report mired in controversy to be submitted today

Negligence allegations!

RC Sharma Chanakya
Poonch, Nov 20: A much-awaited inquiry into allegations of medical negligence against Dr. Jalpreet Kour has become a flashpoint of public outrage in Poonch, with delays, allegations of bribery, and official inaction fueling distrust in the system. Despite an urgent mandate issued over 45 days ago, the inquiry committee formed to investigate the matter has yet to submit its findings.
The inquiry committee was constituted on October 7, 2024, by Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Zulafqar Ahmed vide its office letter No CMO/P/4881-85, following directives from the office of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Poonch vide letter No DCP/Gen/393 dated 07-07-2024. This was in response to a complaint filed by Poonch resident Irfan Naqvi, who accused Dr. Kour of negligence leading to the tragic death of his newborn child. The DC’s office promptly forwarded the complaint to the CMO, directing an immediate and thorough investigation.
The committee, comprising Block Medical Officer (BMO) Surankote Dr. Mohd Yousaf, Consultant Pediatrician Dr. Saye Zakar Hussain, and Senior Assistant Shiv Kumar, was ordered to submit its findings by October 10, 2024. However, the report is now expected on November 21-a staggering delay of 42 days.
When contacted, BMO Dr. Yousaf stated that the inquiry process is nearing completion and that the report is “tentatively” set for submission tomorrow. He said that due to some official issues the report was delayed but nect day it would be submitted. However, critics and complainants are questioning the sincerity of the investigation. “This delay is not just procedural but indicative of a system that is failing to prioritize accountability,” said a local activist.
Adding to the controversy, co-complainant Iftikhar Hussain alleged that an individual approached him with a bribe offer of ?1.5 lakh, urging him to withdraw the complaint against Dr. Kour. Hussain claims to have informed both the CMO and Dr. Yousaf about this bribery attempt through text messages, emphasizing that it should be documented in the inquiry proceedings, given the seriousness of the issue.
The original complaint, filed by Naqvi, detailed how alleged medical negligence resulted in the loss of his newborn child. The issue has reportedly been brought to the attention of senior officials, including IAS Secretary to the Government, Health & Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, and the Director of Health Services, Jammu. However, their continued silence has drawn sharp criticism. “This inaction by top officials is a betrayal of their responsibilities and the trust placed in them by the public,” said a critic.
This case has become a litmus test for the healthcare and administrative machinery in Jammu and Kashmir. The protracted delay, coupled with allegations of corruption, has eroded public confidence in the system. The outcome of the inquiry and the actions taken by higher authorities will determine whether justice prevails or this becomes another forgotten case of systemic failure.
The people of Poonch await the submission of the inquiry report with bated breath, hoping it will deliver the justice long overdue to the bereaved family.