In a shocking incident that has stirred widespread condemnation, a doctor working on a contract basis at a government hospital in Karnataka's Chitradurga district has been sacked after participating in a pre-wedding photoshoot within the confines of the operation theatre.
The controversy erupted after footage of the photoshoot, captured on video and circulated on social media platforms, went viral.
The video depicted Dr. Abhishek, identified by authorities, ostensibly "performing" surgery on a patient, while his fiancee assisted him in what appeared to be a simulated medical procedure. The couple was seen utilizing medical instruments amidst professional lighting equipment, while laughter from camerapersons and technicians added to the controversial nature of the video. The photoshoot seemed to revolve around a medical theme, with the "patient" ultimately seen sitting up and laughing after the mock surgery.
The outrage prompted swift action from the Karnataka government, with Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao ordering Dr. Abhishek's immediate dismissal. Minister Rao emphasized that government hospitals are designated for serving the public and not for personal engagements, asserting his zero-tolerance policy towards such blatant "indiscipline."
"A doctor who conducted a pre-wedding shoot in the operation theater of Bharamasagar Government Hospital in Chitradurga has been dismissed from service. Government hospitals exist for the healthcare of people and not for personal work. I cannot tolerate such indiscipline from doctors," Minister Rao expressed in a tweet.
The incident has sparked debates regarding professionalism and ethics in the medical field, with many expressing shock and dismay over the blatant misuse of medical facilities for personal purposes. Authorities have indicated that further investigations may be conducted to ensure such incidents are not repeated in the future, underlining the importance of maintaining the sanctity of healthcare institutions and upholding professional standards in the medical profession.