In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the medical community, a doctor was shot dead inside a private nursing home in Delhi's Jaitpur area on Wednesday night. The incident occurred at Nima Hospital and comes less than two months after the rape-murder of a 31-year-old doctor in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, raising concerns about the safety of healthcare professionals across the country.

According to initial reports, two teenagers arrived at Nima Hospital late at night, with one of them requesting a change of dressing for an injured toe. The teenager had been treated at the hospital the previous night, and after the dressing was completed, the two demanded to see Dr. Javed Akhtar, a practitioner of Unani medicine.

After gaining access to Dr. Akhtar’s cabin under the pretext of seeking a prescription, one of the teenagers reportedly pulled out a firearm and shot the doctor at point-blank range. The assailants then fled the scene. Dr. Akhtar succumbed to his injuries on the spot.

Ongoing Investigation

The hospital falls under the jurisdiction of the Kalindi Kunj Police Station. Authorities are currently examining CCTV footage from the hospital premises in an effort to identify and apprehend the suspects. “A doctor named Javed Akhtar was shot dead inside Nima Hospital, Jaitpur under the Kalindi Kunj PS area. As per hospital staff, two boys had come to the hospital with an injury. After dressing, they demanded to meet the doctor and shot him dead once they entered his cabin,” stated a police official.

The motive behind the crime remains unclear, and police are investigating whether the incident was premeditated or if there was a personal grudge involved. “We are exploring all possible angles, including any previous altercations or disputes involving the doctor,” the official added.

Rising Concerns Over Safety of Healthcare Workers

The shocking murder of Dr. Akhtar has sparked outrage and concern among the medical fraternity, with many calling for stronger security measures at hospitals and healthcare facilities, particularly during night hours. The incident in Jaitpur follows closely on the heels of the rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata, which had already raised alarms regarding the safety and security of medical professionals.

Healthcare workers, especially those in smaller clinics and nursing homes, often find themselves vulnerable to violence and attacks. This latest incident has reignited discussions around the need for better protection and safety protocols for doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff.

A Call for Action

Medical associations and healthcare professionals have condemned the incident and called for swift action to ensure justice for Dr. Akhtar. “This senseless act of violence against a doctor while on duty is unacceptable and highlights the urgent need for the implementation of stricter laws and better protection measures for healthcare workers,” said a representative of a medical association.

Authorities have assured that they are leaving no stone unturned to bring the perpetrators to justice. “We will ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are held accountable,” a senior police officer stated, urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.