Rajouri, Sep 7: The death of a newborn at a private facility after a woman was allegedly shifted from Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri has triggered a criminal investigation and departmental inquiry.

According to details available, Sushma Devi, 22, wife of Ragveer Singh and resident of Mowanakot, Reasi, was admitted to GMC Rajouri after being brought by ASHA worker Salima Begum, wife of Kabir Hussain, resident of Rehan, Kotranka.

It has been alleged that while Sushma was admitted at GMC Rajouri, FMPHW/staff nurse Sharaz (Shehraz) Nayazi, along with the ASHA worker, allegedly encouraged the patient and her attendants to shift to a private clinic for early delivery.
The patient was subsequently taken to the private facility, where her condition reportedly deteriorated. The newborn later died, while the mother was also reported to be in serious condition.
The allegations are now subject to investigation, which will establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and the treatment provided to the patient.
Taking cognisance of the matter, Rajouri Police registered FIR No. 465 under Section 106(1) read with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against the concerned persons.
The case was registered by SHO Rajouri Inspector Imran Khan under the supervision of DIG Rajouri-Poonch Range Sandeep Wazir, IPS, and SSP Rajouri Naresh Singh, JKPS.
The investigation will examine the circumstances leading to the newborn’s death and the alleged role of the individuals named in the case.
In a parallel departmental action, Sharaz Nayazi, FMPHW posted at the Associated Hospital of GMC Rajouri from the Directorate of Health Services, Jammu, has been placed under suspension with immediate effect pending an inquiry into her conduct.
As per the suspension order, she will remain attached to the office of the Chief Medical Officer, Rajouri, during the suspension period.
Authorities at GMC Rajouri have also initiated a departmental inquiry to determine the circumstances of the incident and fix responsibility, if any.
The twin actions—an FIR by police and departmental proceedings by health authorities—have brought the matter under close scrutiny.
The incident has also raised concerns over patient care, professional conduct and allegations of patients being encouraged to seek treatment at private facilities while admitted to government hospitals.
However, the allegations against the concerned individuals remain subject to investigation and due process. Responsibility can be conclusively established only after the police investigation and departmental inquiry are completed.
The authorities have been urged to ensure a fair, transparent and impartial probe into the circumstances surrounding the newborn’s death.