GUJRANWALA: An orthopaedic surgeon at the teaching hospital was dismissed from his job for prescribing a medical test to former principal secretary to chief minister Muhammad Khan Bhatti, who was imprisoned in central jail.

The action sparked a strike by the Young Doctors Association (YDA), who demand reinstatement of Dr Nauman Shahid.

Reports said Muhammad Khan Bhatti is currently detained in Gujranwala’s Central Jail. Recently, the teaching hospital received a letter from the jail authorities requesting medical check-ups for three inmates, including Bhatti. After examining Bhatti, Dr Nauman Shahid, on duty at that time, advised medical test. The surgeon was dismissed for improperly prescribing medical test in collusion with others.

Consequently, the YDA suspended outdoor services at the teaching hospital in protest.

YDA President Dr. Adil Rashid Cheema defended Dr. Nauman, stating that his recommendation was made from a medical perspective. Cheema criticised the lack of inquiry or referral to a medical board, terming Dr. Nauman’s dismissal a political action.

The YDA vowed to continue their strike until Dr. Nauman is reinstated.

On the other hand, Civil Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Irshadullah Goraya said the matter would be resolved soon and the medical college principal is discussing the issue.

MURDER: A man was killed and another injured in firing by rivals on Alipur Road near Dera Maskin Shah.

The deceased was identified as Faizul Hasan.

Published in Dawn, February 8th, 2024