As assaults and accusations rise, doctors in Kashmir grapple with fear and frustration. Society must respect and support those risking their lives amid systemic failures.
Another dark day unfolded in the corridors of SMHS Hospital, a doctor was reportedly slapped by a patient’s attendant. Sadly, this is no longer an isolated incident. It is becoming a disturbing pattern in Kashmirwhere instead of seeking answers through dialogue or demanding systemic improvements, people are choosing to abuse, blame, and even physically assault those who are trying to save lives.
Overcrowded hospitals, endless queues, lack of infrastructure – yes, these are real issues. But behind those white coats are human beings, working with limited resources, often without rest or relief. Most doctors are pulling long shifts, handling emergencies, and managing dozens of patients at a time. They could choose to walk away, but they don’t. And how are they treated? With slaps, verbal abuse, and false accusations.
People should be demanding more doctors and better staff strength, better systems and support. But instead, they are blaming and attacking the very doctors and paramedics who are still standing and serving. When a patient dies, it is painful, no doubt. Questioning a system is everyone’s right. But don’t rush to conclude that it’s always the doctor’s fault. Maybe that doctor fought for your loved one’s life, maybe they tried every option available, maybe they couldn’t revive the patient despite doing everything in their power. But in that moment of loss, society too often forgets that medicine isn’t magic.
And now, a new fear is settling in the minds of doctors. Many are beginning to hesitate when treating critically ill patients, not because they lack the skill, but because they fear the reaction if things don’t go right. Before even touching the patient, we’re forced to ask ourselves: What if something happens? Will I be blamed? Beaten? Defamed?
I say this not as a distant observer but as a doctor myself. I feel insecure while treating patients now. Even when I’m doing everything I can, there’s a fear hanging at the back of my mind, “What if I fail to create a miracle?” Because today, even trying your best is not enough to protect you from public rage.
Why has it become so easy to raise a hand at a doctor? Have we become so used to disrespecting our own that we no longer see the human being behind the stethoscope? Is this how we repay those who stood by us even when systems failed? Hospitals are not battlefields. Doctors are not the enemy. If we don’t put a stop to this culture of violence and blame, we are going to lose the very people we rely on in our worst moments.
Let us pause, reflect, and grow. Let us hold systems accountable but protect our healers. Because one day, it could be your life in their hands.
The writer is a Medical Officer at PHC Shargole
Dr Fazal Wani
wa*******@***il.com