PUNE: The death of a government doctor from Phaltan following an alleged suicide attempt in Mumbai has prompted doctors’ organisations to demand an independent probe into claims of harassment, threats and external pressure at his workplace.
He was rescued by police and fire brigade personnel and taken to hospital after CPR. The doctor reportedly refused to issue the certificate immediately, citing rules, following which an argument took place. The man allegedly later threatened the doctor. The doctor approached Phaltan city police, which registered a case for allegedly obstructing government work. His colleagues alleged that he repeatedly sought a copy of the inquiry report but did not receive it for a considerable period.
The dispute began in July when a man allegedly approached the Phaltan hospital seeking a fitness certificate and claimed to be the personal assistant of former Maharashtra minister Tanaji Sawant, according to reports. Hospital authorities subsequently conducted an inquiry against the doctor, according to the reports. Dr Sandesh Yemalwad, president, AMO, said medical officers often work under heavy pressure and with inadequate manpower, which can affect doctors, patient care and the wider public health system.
The medical officer at Phaltan Sub-District Hospital in Satara district, attempted suicide on Thursday morning after climbing a high-tension electricity tower near Sion railway station in Mumbai, according to a police official. He died during treatment on Monday afternoon.
Before his suicide attempt, the doctor reportedly released a video seeking action against medical superintendent Dr Leela Madne and warning that he would take an extreme step if no action was taken.
