Panel begins probe into Akola GMC video of ‘woman carrying husband’

Nagpur: Commissioner of health services has set up a 3-member probe panel to investigate Akola GMCH incident in which a woman was seen carrying a man, purportedly her husband, on her shoulders due to alleged lack of stretcher in the emergency ward recently.Led by GMCH Nagpur dean Dr Raj Gajbhiye, the panel visited Akola GMCH on Thursday and initiated the probe. Yavatmal GMCH dean Dr Prashant Uikey and GMCH administrative officer are other members on the panel. "We have been asked to conduct an inquiry into the issue and ascertain the veracity of the viral clip," Dr Gajbhiye said.He, however, refused to divulge details about the findings. Dr Gajbhiye said stretchers and wheelchairs were available at Akola GMCH when the panel visited. A report is likely to be submitted to the commissioner in next couple of days.Meanwhile, Akola GMCH administration has dismissed two security guards and sent a ward boy on compulsory leave following the viral video that allegedly showed a woman carrying her ailing husband on her shoulders within the hospital premises.The action was announced after a review meeting chaired by local MLA Sajid Khan Pathan and attended by dean Dr Sanjay Sonune, hospital officials and staff. According to the hospital administration, preliminary findings indicated lapses on part of the personnel concerned, prompting disciplinary action.The incident sparked widespread outrage and raised questions over patient care and support services at Akola GMCH. Authorities have also issued notices to several employees seeking explanations and indicated that further action may be taken against officials found responsible after a detailed inquiry.