Saqib Rather
Srinagar, June 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has placed a senior cardiologist posted at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag under suspension pending the outcome of a departmental inquiry into alleged irregularities related to cardiac procedures performed at the institution.
According to an order issued by the Health and Medical Education Department on Saturday, Dr. Syed Maqbool Ahmad Shah, Associate Professor of Cardiology currently serving on deputation at GMC Anantnag, has been suspended with immediate effect under the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956.
The government has also directed that the doctor remain attached to Government Medical College Jammu during the suspension period until the inquiry is concluded.
A senior official in the Health and Medical Education Department, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the decision was taken to ensure a fair and transparent investigation.
“The suspension should not be construed as a determination of guilt. It is an administrative measure aimed at facilitating an impartial inquiry into the issues that have come under scrutiny,” the official said.
The order, issued by Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, M. Raju (IAS), states that disciplinary proceedings are underway and that further action will depend on the findings of the inquiry.
Sources in the department said the probe pertains to allegations surrounding certain cardiac interventions carried out at GMC Anantnag. While details of the inquiry have not been made public, officials maintained that the government is committed to upholding professional and ethical standards in public healthcare institutions.
“Patient safety and adherence to established medical protocols remain paramount. Any concerns brought to the notice of the department are examined thoroughly and in accordance with the law,” another senior official said.
The development has drawn attention within medical circles, with healthcare administrators emphasizing that the inquiry process will provide an opportunity to establish the facts surrounding the allegations.
Officials reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and that no conclusions should be drawn until the inquiry is completed and its findings are formally placed before the competent authorities. The suspension order came into effect on June 20, and the cardiologist will remain under attachment at GMC Jammu until further orders from the government.
