Nursing Intern Protest at Doda Hospital Prompts Inquiry Over Burqa Restrictions

Nursing interns at the Government Medical College and Hospital in Doda staged a protest following allegations that the head of the gynaecology department objected to staff wearing burqas inside the labour room. Trouble began on Wednesday when groups of nursing interns demonstrated inside the hospital premises against Dr Madhu Chib. Protesters claimed a student was removed from the labour room a day earlier for wearing a veil, and two more students faced similar action on Thursday. The agitating students boycotted work and gathered outside the building to decry what they termed interference in religious matters. The demonstration ended after the hospital administration stepped in. Dr Chib stated that her objection was strictly about maintaining hygiene compliance in sensitive zones like labour rooms and operation theatres to prevent patient infections. Dr Irfan Tassaduq, the in-charge medical superintendent, confirmed the panel's creation and called the incident a miscommunication, explaining that staff were simply asked to tighten loose clothing and wear a gown over it according to standard medical protocols.

Reactions and Past Disputes

The incident drew responses from political figures. Doda MLA Mehraj Malik raised the issue with Health Minister Sakina Itoo, while National Conference chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq expressed concern, stating that personal choice and the freedom to practise one's religion are protected by the Constitution. Dr Chib has faced public disputes before, including lodging a police complaint in May last year against MLA Malik over alleged abusive and gendered social media remarks. Malik had denied those claims and accused the doctor of private practice during official hours.

Context

Hospital labour rooms and operation theatres enforce strict dress codes and hygiene standards to prevent patient infections and maintain a sterile environment. Tensions often arise when institutional safety protocols intersect with personal religious attire, prompting administrative intervention and panels to review the facts.