Violence at SMHS: A Wake-Up Call for Patient-Doctor Relations in Kashmir

A disturbing incident recently unfolded at SMHS Hospital in Srinagar, where Dr. Shahnawaz, a resident doctor, was assaulted by a patient’s attendant. The attack, which occurred on July 22, 2025, in the hospital’s emergency ward, triggered widespread protests from the medical fraternity.

The confrontation erupted following the death of a patient, Javid Ahmad, who reportedly succumbed to alleged medical negligence. According to the patient’s family, Dr. Shahnawaz failed to respond adequately to Javid’s deteriorating condition and instructed them to procure medicines from outside, which, they claim, contributed to his death.

In response, resident doctors suspended medical services, locked hospital gates, and staged a protest. This left hundreds of patients and attendants stranded, many in urgent need of care. A CCTV video capturing the moment Dr. Shahnawaz was slapped by an attendant sparked outrage across the medical community. Doctors demanded strict legal action against the accused and called for stronger protection measures for healthcare professionals.

GMC Srinagar strongly condemned the assault. An FIR was lodged, and the administration emphasized that hospitals are “public institutions serving humanity.” They urged people to remain calm and respectful, especially during emotionally charged moments.

While the incident at SMHS Hospital is shocking, it is not isolated. Public health institutions across Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed similar episodes in the past, leading to public outcry. The medical profession is among the noblest—doctors are often seen as next to God because of their life-saving roles. In times of war, natural disasters, and pandemics, healthcare professionals serve tirelessly and selflessly.

However, merely celebrating Doctor’s Day on July 1 each year with seminars and events is not enough. True respect is shown by recognizing their daily sacrifices: working long shifts, spending little time with their families, and often neglecting personal lives for the well-being of patients.

Becoming a doctor is not easy. It takes tireless effort, rigorous study, and unwavering dedication. The “Dr” prefix is a symbol of hard-earned success and immense responsibility. Therefore, doctors deserve both respect and protection in the workplace.

Assaulting healthcare professionals and forcing them to consider working outside the region is a troubling trend. It poses a serious threat to public health—especially for underprivileged people who rely heavily on government hospitals.

At the same time, the recent response by doctors—shutting down emergency services and denying treatment—raises concerns. While their protest is understandable, it should not come at the cost of patient care. Denying medical services, especially to the poor, goes against the very oath they take. Such actions must be condemned by all sections of society.

Yes, healthcare professionals are often subject to verbal abuse and even physical attacks. But legal protections already exist and must be enforced rigorously to deter such incidents. Violence is never the answer.

I recall a personal experience from three years ago. A fall in the washroom at my rented room in Ganderbal led to a partial tear in my left Achilles tendon. I was admitted to the prestigious SKIMS Hospital in Soura, Srinagar, for nine days. Thanks to the skill of Dr. Umar Farooq Baba, a renowned plastic surgeon, and the care of the paramedical staff, I recovered fully after months of rest. Despite being advised to seek treatment outside the state, I had unwavering faith in Dr. Umar and SKIMS. That experience deepened my respect for the doctor’s community and the quality of care available in our institutions.

It is time for society to appreciate the sacrifices and services of doctors genuinely. At the same time, medical professionals must uphold the dignity and responsibility of their calling.

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RAYEES AHMAD KUMAR
The author is a columnist based in Qazigund, Kashmir.