Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj has taken a firm stance following the tragic shooting at Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital, ensuring that those responsible will face justice. He has also announced a comprehensive review of security measures across all hospitals in Delhi. The incident, which took place on a Sunday evening, saw a patient named Riyazuddin fatally shot within the hospital premises.
Bhardwaj expressed his determination to hold the culprits accountable, emphasising that negligence will not be tolerated. Speaking to a media agency, he stated, "Negligence in such cases will not be tolerated. Whoever is guilty will not be spared. The security of all hospitals will be reviewed." He also criticised the current law and order situation, pointing out that it has worsened over the past two years.
According to Bhardwaj, many forces are preoccupied with VIP duties, and night patrols by constables have ceased, leading to a decline in public safety under LG Saxena's administration.
The shooting incident at GTB Hospital occurred around 4.20 pm. Riyazuddin, the victim, was from Khajuri Khas. Police received a PCR call from ward No. 24 of the hospital, reporting that a patient had been shot and the assailants had fled the scene.
Upon arrival, the police confirmed that Riyazuddin had been killed. Five empty bullet casings were discovered at the site, and investigations are underway to determine if there was any underlying rivalry or motive behind the attack. Additional DCP Shahdara Vishnu Sharma mentioned that efforts are being made to identify the suspects through CCTV footage.
Riyazuddin’s wife has suggested that her husband was a victim of mistaken identity. She recounted her experience, saying, "I met my husband yesterday. When I arrived at the hospital, I learned that he had been shot dead. They had come here to kill someone else but mistakenly shot my husband." She further explained that another patient in a different ward had received threats, and it appeared that the shooters intended to target him but ended up killing her husband instead.
This incident has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced security measures in hospitals. Minister Bhardwaj’s promise to review and improve hospital security is a necessary step towards preventing such tragedies in the future.
The safety of patients, staff, and visitors must be a top priority, and stringent measures should be implemented to ensure a secure environment in medical facilities.
The GTB Hospital shooting serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities within hospital security systems. While healthcare facilities are meant to be safe havens for treatment and recovery, incidents like this underscore the need for robust security protocols.
The review initiated by Bhardwaj should include a comprehensive assessment of current security measures, identification of potential weaknesses, and the implementation of advanced security technologies.
Additionally, there should be increased coordination between hospital administration and local law enforcement to ensure a swift response to any threats. Regular security audits, training for hospital staff on emergency protocols, and community awareness programs can also contribute to a safer hospital environment.
Moreover, addressing the broader issues of law and order as highlighted by Bhardwaj is essential. Ensuring that law enforcement agencies are adequately staffed and equipped to handle their duties, including night patrols and public safety measures, is crucial. The focus should not only be on VIP duties but also on maintaining law and order for the general public.
The shooting at GTB Hospital is a tragic event that has brought attention to the need for improved security in healthcare facilities. Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj’s commitment to holding the perpetrators accountable and reviewing hospital security measures is a step in the right direction.
By implementing comprehensive security protocols and addressing broader law enforcement issues, Delhi can work towards ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens in all public spaces, including hospitals.
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