INFANT LOSES TWO FINGERS: ERRING DOCTOR SUSPENDED FOR NEGLIGENCE BY HEALTH MINISTER

PANJIM: Health minister Vishwajit Rane on Saturday evening said he has ordered the suspension of a doctor attached to the gynaecology department of GMC in connection with a botched caesarian operation in which an infant lost two fingers.   "I have asked joint secretary (health) Dattaram Sardesai to order the suspension of Dr V Pereira pending inquiry, based on the preliminary report submitted by medical superintendent Dr Rajan Kuncolienkar," Rane said.

He added that he has also ordered the constitution of an inquiry committee headed by the health secretary.

On Wednesday, in the absence of senior doctors, some caesarian operations were conducted. In Vasco-resident P P Kambli's case, her infant's two fingers were cut. The negligence came to light after Kambli complained. One finger was stitched on later, an official said.

Rane saidf, "I am very clear about it. Strict action will be taken. We will even pursue dismissal from service if the negligence is clear-cut. As per our information, two more doctors have come under the scanner. We are looking into the other matters of negligence with all seriousness."

When told that no one had been suspended till late Saturday, Rane said this was probably on account of the weekend and the order will be issued on Monday.

Kuncolienkar said a note was sent by Sardesai directing strict action to be taken against the erring doctor and calling for a detailed report. He said the head of the gynaecology department has been asked to submit the report within three days.

He further said that the suspension decision has to be taken by dean Dr V N Jindal. However, Jindal said he is on leave and that the charge is with Dr Pradip Naik, who when contacted, said he was not aware of any decision on suspension in the matter. Kuncolienkar said police have recorded the infant's mother's statement.