Chaos ensued at AIIMS-Rishikesh following a dramatic intervention by the Uttarakhand Police, who drove an SUV into the patients' waiting gallery to apprehend a nursing officer accused of molesting a female doctor on May 19. A video capturing the incident circulated widely on social media, depicting the vehicle's entry into the hospital gallery as guards maneuvered stretchers with patients to clear a path.
The accused, identified as Satish Kumar, hailing from Rajasthan, faced suspension and subsequent arrest on Tuesday following allegations of molestation by the female doctor, identified as Vadini. He was later released on bail, pending further legal proceedings. The charges against Kumar included sexual harassment, resulting in his detention under sections 354 and 506 of the Indian Penal Code.
Responding to the public outcry sparked by the viral video, the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Dehradun issued clarifications, stating that the vehicle was directed to the fourth floor of AIIMS-Rishikesh. The SSP asserted that an investigation into the incident was underway, highlighting that the area traversed by the vehicle was not an emergency ward but a waiting gallery for patients awaiting admission. The use of this route was purportedly orchestrated by security personnel to escort the accused under the circumstances.
Meanwhile, tensions escalated at AIIMS-Rishikesh as resident doctors staged a strike, demanding the immediate termination of Satish Kumar's employment. Gathering outside the office of the Dean (Academics), the protesting doctors vocally asserted that mere suspension was insufficient redressal for the severity of Kumar's alleged transgressions.
Dr. Sanjiv Kumar Mittal, the Medical Superintendent, relayed the residents' sentiments, emphasizing their frustration over the delayed filing of an FIR and the perceived lack of urgency in apprehending the accused.
In response to the mounting concerns, Kusum Kandwal, Chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Commission for Women, engaged with AIIMS authorities, urging a thorough investigation into the matter and advocating for decisive action against the perpetrator. Kandwal further advocated for the establishment of a dedicated committee to investigate the incident comprehensively.
