Chikkaballapur doctor blamed for patient's death

Accusing a doctor at the District Hospital of having caused the death of a patient, Dalita Sangharsha Samiti members and the public protested outside the Hospital on Thursday.

The protesters demanded that the Deputy Commissioner visit the Hospital and suspend the doctor who treated Obalappa. They carried their dharna on outside the Hospital for more than an hour.

‘Paid treatment’

Obalappa (50), a resident of S Gollahalli in Chikkaballapur taluk, was a coolie worker. He is survived by his wife and three sons.

At around 9 am on Thursday, Obalappa visited the Hospital complaining of extreme exhaustion along with his son.

“But he was not checked up properly, nor given any treatment. Dr Diwakar agreed to check up Obalappa only when the son gave the doctor Rs 100,” Dalita Sangharsha Samiti leader Venu, told presspersons.

When the doctor examined Obalappa, who was a diabetic, he found that the blood-sugar level had fallen. He prescribed three bottles of glucose to be administered to the patient.

However, this only led the sugar level to rise to a dangerous level. Learning of this, the doctor immediately prescribed Obalappa treatment at a private hospital.

“Obalappa died a few minutes after this. Therefore, the negligence of the doctor at the District Hospital is the reason for his death,” said Venu.

Action taken

Sub-divisional officer P Vasanth Kumar and tahsildar Poornima visited the Hospital and pacified the protesters.

They also informed the people that the Deputy Commissioner would be requested to send a letter to the Health Department head to suspend Dr Diwakar, who treated the deceased. Dr Diwakar was sent on leave immediately.

Circle Inspector S Shivakumar, City Police Station Sub-inspector Vasanth and others were present.